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When it comes to client support, managing incontinence can be a challenging and sensitive issue. Both the adults experiencing incontinence and their support network can feel overwhelmed by the loss of bladder control. However, with the right approach, it is possible to provide incontinence care that maintains dignity, comfort, and support for your client or loved one.
Here, we’ll dive into incontinence care and how to manage the condition effectively.
WHAT IS INCONTINENCE CARE?
Incontinence care is the management and treatment of urinary or bowel incontinence, i.e. the involuntary loss of control over the bladder or bowel. It involves various strategies and interventions aimed at improving bladder or bowel control and minimising the impact of incontinence on daily life.
Let’s explore some top tips for caring for someone with incontinence.
OPEN COMMUNICATION AND EDUCATION
One of the most crucial aspects of managing incontinence is open communication between the support worker and the individual experiencing incontinence. Creating a safe and non-judgmental environment for discussing the condition is essential; educate yourself about the different types of incontinence and their causes, symptoms, and available treatments.
By having a strong understanding, you can better empathise with your client's experience and advocate for their needs.
LANGUAGE AND SENSITIVITY
When discussing incontinence, using language that promotes dignity and respect is important. Avoid using terms like "diapers" or “nappies” and instead refer to incontinence products as absorbent pads, pull-ups, briefs, or protective underwear.
This simple change in language can empower your client or loved one and reinforce their independence and autonomy.
BLADDER-FRIENDLY DIETS
Diet plays a significant role in managing incontinence. Certain foods and beverages can irritate the bladder, leading to increased urgency and leaks; encourage your client or loved one to adopt a bladder-friendly diet by avoiding or limiting caffeine, acidic and citrus foods, carbonated drinks, spicy foods, and alcohol.
Balancing fluid intake is also crucial, as dehydration and excessive fluid consumption can impact bladder health.
ESTABLISH A BATHROOM SCHEDULE
Wondering how to stop bladder leakage? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but creating a regular bathroom schedule can be beneficial in managing incontinence.
Encourage your client or loved one to use the restroom at set intervals, gradually increasing the time between visits. This approach helps train the bladder and improve control.
Keep track of when incontinence products need to be changed to ensure cleanliness and prevent leaks.
PROMOTE HYGIENE AND CLEANLINESS
Maintaining proper hygiene is an essential part of incontinence care. Regularly changing liners, pads, or incontinence underwear prevents skin irritation and infections.
Waterproofing with protectors or pads on beds, chairs, and common living areas helps minimise the impact of accidental leaks. Selecting clothing that is easy to change and clean, like loose-fitted or elastic pants, can also help with personal care.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT INCONTINENCE PRODUCTS
Different levels of urinary incontinence require varying degrees of protection. Explore options like liners, pads, or adult underwear to find the best fit for your client or loved one's size, leakage level, and comfort.
MoliCare is one brand that offers a range of products designed for different needs, providing comfort, confidence, and odour control. Their pull-ups come in various sizes and absorption levels, ensuring your client or loved one has the ideal solution for their needs — shop online today!
PLANNING AND PREPARATION
Leaving the house can be daunting for individuals with incontinence, but with proper planning and preparation, it is possible to maintain an active lifestyle. Create a bag with essential incontinence supplies, including pads, wipes, incontinence underwear, gloves, and a change of clothes.
CARING FOR SOMEONE WITH INCONTINENCE IS EASY WITH OUR AFFORDABLE, DISPOSABLE PRODUCTS
Managing incontinence requires sensitivity, understanding, and proactive care. With open communication, good hygiene, and a supportive environment, caregivers can help their loved ones and clients with incontinence maintain dignity and comfort.
At Active Mobility, we offer a range of incontinence products to make managing the condition simple. From mobile pull-ups to cleansers, body lotions and barrier creams, we have affordable products available to ensure incontinence doesn’t get in the way of daily life and comfort.