Incontinence is one of the most discomfort conditions our loved ones can face. As parents age, their ability to control bladder and bowel functions weakens for a number of reasons. It is not shocking that they may try to hide it.
If you’re caring for a senior with incontinence, you can follow some helpful tips to minimize stress on them and maintain their dignity.
Be reassuring
- Reassure your parent that incontinence is a common medical condition and that they are not alone in this. People of all ages face this challenge.
- Advise them to consult their doctor and ask for solutions.
- You can offer samples of disposable pants or diapers to help them feel more confident. Plant these in a convenient area.
Ask for help
If your parent refuses to talk to you about incontinence, they might prefer talking to a sibling or a trusted friend about the sensitive topic.
Pinpoint the discretion
If your loved one is resistant to using protective underwear, ask them if they have ever observed another person wearing disposable liners. Probably not, so why would someone else notice theirs?
Humor can do it!
Why not talk and laugh about the embarrassing situation?
After having the talk and your parent is ready to cope with the new condition, it is important to follow a bunch of steps:
- Talk to their personal doctor to better understand the problem and learn what solutions are available.
- Establish a regular toilet schedule to reduce accidents and promote security.
- After discussing the treatment with the doctor, set a treatment plan and prepare the right supplies.
- Check their diet and medications for these can affect the urination frequency.
- Watch their diet.
- Secure a clear path to their bathroom to avoid potential falls.
- Remember the three steps of skin preservation: Cleanse, Moisturize, and Protect.
If the care receiver lives with a mental condition like dementia, you can take a class where you can learn about useful tools or even hire a caregiver.
Always be tactful and offer emotional support.