Tips for Caring for an Incontinent Aging Loved One

Incontinence is common as people age, but it can still be a delicate topic for seniors and their caregivers. If your aging parent is experiencing incontinence for the first time, it’s best to schedule a doctor’s appointment to identify any potential health issues that are contributing to his or her challenges. Incontinence can have many different causes, and these strategies will help you provide your parent with the highest level of care.

Increase Visibility around the Bathroom

Cognitive challenges can impact the ability to identify the restroom or toilet in time to avoid an accident. Try painting the door a different color, or leave it open at night with the light on to make the restroom more visible. You could also place a picture of a toilet on the front of the door if you prefer to keep it closed. Inside the bathroom, consider using a glow-in-the dark switch plate and toilet light to make it easier for your loved one to find his or her way around. If your elderly loved one is living with a serious medical condition and needs help managing the tasks of daily living, reach out to Home Care Assistance, an elder care agency you can trust. Our caregivers are available 24/7, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all of our in-home care services.

Select the Right Incontinence Products

You’ll find an array of products available to keep your loved one clean and dry. Take some time to explore all the options until you find the one that makes your loved one the most comfortable and is easier for you to use as a caregiver. Keep in mind your loved one’s needs may change. For example, you might need to choose a different product if your loved one’s weight or number of accidents changes.

Follow a Routine

Sticking to a routine makes it easier to anticipate your loved one’s toileting needs. Most older adults need to use the restroom every couple of hours, and you may notice a pattern, such as your loved one going after mealtimes. Once you know the pattern, you might be able to get your loved one to the restroom in time to prevent an accident. Urinary incontinence is just one of the many health issues older adults are susceptible to. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality in-home care. Winnipeg families trust Home Care Assistance to help their elderly loved ones age in place safely and comfortably.

Help Your Parent Choose Practical Clothing

At times, you may need to change your loved one’s clothing quickly or even while out in public. Special clothing is available, such as pants that snap on the sides for easier removal. Your loved one may also benefit from wearing pants with an elastic waistband if time is of the essence and fasteners slow him or her down.

Offer Support for Complete Bladder Emptying

Overflow and stress incontinence can occur if your loved one is unable to fully empty his or her bladder. Try to keep restroom breaks unrushed so your loved one doesn’t feel the need to stop urinating once he or she starts. You can also use tricks such as playing running water sounds that encourage your loved one’s muscles to relax.

Provide Around-the-Clock Assistance

Some seniors with incontinence stop going out because they fear having accidents. Others may rush to the bathroom at night and experience injuries as they try to get out of bed too fast. Make sure your loved one has a caregiver close by so he or she can feel safe going to the store or waking up during the night to use the restroom.  Incontinence is a serious health concern that could impact your loved one’s ability to manage everyday activities independently. Every senior has different needs when aging in place. Some simply need occasional assistance with household chores, while others may be managing serious illnesses and require more extensive live-in care. Winnipeg seniors can count on Home Care Assistance to provide the in-home care they need and deserve. We will work with you to create a customized home care plan that’s suited for your loved one’s unique needs. Call the Home Care Assistance team at (204) 489-6000 today.