Understanding incontinence

 

Talking about incontinence with your parent can be embarrassing and uncomfortable for both of you. But when you’re discussing a loved one’s long-term care needs, understanding all their medical conditions is essential. Reinforce to your parent that incontinence is just like any other medical condition that deserves to be treated properly.

If you suspect your parent may be having issues, be prepared to have a conversation using the following facts.

Urinary incontinence (UI) is an involuntary loss of urine, while fecal incontinence (FI) is an inability to control bowel movements. There are many causes of urinary and fecal incontinence, including, but not limited to, the following:

  • Chronic illness
  • Stress
  • Nerve damage
  • Physical disability
  • Late-stage Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia

Seniors may wear incontinence briefs for any of the reasons above. Some older adults with UI and FI are still very mobile and can use the restroom by themselves, and they might even be able change their own briefs. However, seniors who have limited mobility or significantly reduced cognitive abilities will rely heavily on caregivers to monitor, clean, and change them.

    • Bathroom reminders. Our staff might remind or encourage individuals with incontinence to use the restroom.
    • Scheduled restroom visits. We schedule planned restroom visits where an aide will escort a senior to use the bathroom once every few hours.
    • Adult diaper or brief changes. We offer hands-on assistance like adult diaper changes services.
    • Continence management specialists. Our staff speciali experience in continence management, includes preventative actions like pelvic floor exercises, education on causes and treatments, and more.