Our care experts offer tips to support loved ones with urinary incontinence.
It’s not something most of us would feel comfortable sharing with others. As a matter of fact, the embarrassment of even mentioning urinary incontinence is generally enough to keep the problem concealed. Not only that, but there’s a common misunderstanding that it’s simply a normal part of aging and needs to be discreetly accepted and managed. Yet the truth is, 50% of all older adults have urinary incontinence to varying degrees for various reasons, many of which are treatable. This makes it very important to bring the subject to light in order to better take care of or even conquer it.
How Can You Help an Older Adult With Urinary Incontinence?
As a caregiver for an older loved one, there are a number of things you can do to help, starting with scheduling a visit to the doctor’s office. The physician can test for a urinary tract infection or any other conditions that, once treated, can eradicate the issue. Below are some other tips on how to support the person:
- Purchase mattress and furniture protectors. Absorbent padding on the bed and waterproof covers for other furniture pieces will make cleanup easier.
- Think about clothing choices. Consider which styles of clothing allow for easy accessibility to use the bathroom, including pants with elastic waistbands as opposed to those with buttons and zippers. Apparel made from materials that are easier to clean and less likely to stain is important as well.
- Stay calm. It’s normal to feel frustrated at the additional work incontinence causes a family caregiver. Nevertheless, bear in mind that it’s not within the person’s control, and they likely already feel distressed over the condition. A calm, kind response to an accident could go a long way towards alleviating a stressful event for both of you.
- Alter the menu. Some foods can trigger or worsen symptoms of incontinence. Reduce or remove spicy foods, tomatoes, acidic fruits, sugar, chocolate, carbonated and caffeinated drinks and alcohol from the person’s diet.
- Prioritize hydration. Surprisingly, not drinking enough fluids can aggravate problems with incontinence. Scheduling trips to the bathroom every one or two hours, whether they feel the urge to urinate or not, is an effective way to manage the consumption of sufficient fluids.
How In-Home Care Can Help
An in-home caregiver from Inspired Home Care is a wonderful addition to your incontinence care toolbox! All of our caregivers are thoroughly trained in providing respectful, discreet care for loved ones living with urinary incontinence, always preserving the person’s dignity. We can help with:
- Caring for personal hygiene
- Laundry and light housekeeping
- Medication reminders
- Meal prep that’s suitable for someone with incontinence
- Compassionate, friendly, and understanding companionship
- And more
Reach out to us online or at 847-787-7572 to find out more regarding how our home care services in Gold Coast, Lake Zurich, Chicago, and the nearby areas can help a person you love better manage incontinence or other issues.