Fluid intake is also important, as it keeps the bladder and bowel healthy. Space out roughly six to eight glasses each day. Fiber-rich foods like bran, fruit, and vegetables can help with constipation.
Pads and pull-up pants
If the person you’re caring for needs to wear absorbent products such as pads, adult underwear, or liners, you may also need to wash their skin. Regular exposure to moisture can cause a number of skin problems, such as inflammation, and fungal and yeast infections.
Keep skin clean by washing it gently with a pH-balanced perineal cleanser, and then patting it dry. Creams and powders can be useful in protecting skin from moisture overexposure.
Tips for caregivers: Reducing accidents
Incontinence often happens due to timing. It may help to recognize potential signs that a person needs to go, such as straining, turning red in the face, and tugging at their clothing. If you help them get dressed, use clothing that’s easy to remove such as pants with elastic waistbands instead of buttons and belts.
One successful technique is prompted voiding. This is a type of bladder retraining that helps people to maintain a regular bathroom schedule. For example, every two hours, ask if they’ve had an accident, have the person use the toilet, and praise successes.
At home
The goal to reduce accidents at home is to help the person you’re caring for identify and use the toilet with ease. Here are some things you can do to achieve this goal:
- Remove obstacles from paths taken most often to the toilet.
- Leave the bathroom door open at all times or put a sign in front of the door. Avoid locking the door.
- Make sure the toilet is at a good height and that lighting is good. Install grab bars next to the toilet, if possible.
- Wait until they are next to the toilet to help remove their clothing.
At night, you can place a portable toilet chair near their bed. Installing motion sensor lights may also help avoid accidents. If they can’t get to the bathroom without help, consider getting a bed pad or a waterproof mattress protector.
Outside or in public
When going out, plan in advance. Time your travel stops around bathrooms, and be prepared for accidents by bringing a pad and extra clothes.
After accidents
Everyone reacts differently to incontinence. Some may find it upsetting, while others recognize it as part of their condition. The best way to approach the situation is with understanding and genuine interest for improvement.
If an accident occurs, try to:
- be respectful of privacy
- speak or address the issue in a calm manner
- avoid scolding, or looking upset or frustrated
Wash your hands thoroughly in warm water before and after helping with toileting or changing adult undergarments or pads.