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The Top 12 Questions About Incontinence
What Caregivers Should Be Asking Loved Ones' Doctors
By Melissa Granberry
"It is important for patients to do Kegel exercises correctly," says Dr. Elser. "Many physical therapy centers can help patients who are having trouble performing these exercises." For more information on how to help your loved one correctly perform Kegel exercises visit Depend.com.
9. What daily activities should be implemented to manage incontinence?
- Absorbent Products – A variety of absorbent pads and undergarments are available that patients can wear unnoticed under clothing. Dr. Elser recommends using absorbent products made specifically for urine leakage.
- Good Hygiene – Changing absorbent pads frequently and keeping the affected skin as dry as possible will help prevent rashes and infections. Topical creams can also form a barrier to prevent moisture from contacting the skin, and rash or anti-fungal creams can help with irritation.
- Diet Modification – Certain foods and fluids can irritate the bladder. "Carbonated drinks, coffee and some citrus fruits and drinks can be hard on the bladder," says Dr. Elser. The doctor can help you determine if certain foods or drinks need to be eliminated from your loved one's diet.
- Exercise – General exercise can help keep a person healthy in a variety of ways, including maintaining continence. "A sedentary life leads to incontinence," Schempp says.
- Bathroom Accessibility – Having easy access to the bathroom can make a big difference to someone experiencing problems with incontinence, says Schempp. For people who are having trouble getting to the bathroom without an accident, Schempp suggests caregivers purchase a portable commode to place neara favorite chair, provide grab bars by the toilet and help their loved one choose clothing with elastic waistbands.