Tips for managing incontinence

Caring for someone with dementia can come with challenges, including managing incontinence. It’s important to know that with the right approach, it can be handled in a way that ensures both dignity and comfort for the person with dementia. Here are some tips that might help:

1. Understand the cause
   Incontinence can have several causes, like urinary tract infections, constipation, medications, or the effects of dementia itself. It’s important to work with healthcare professionals to identify the cause and find the best way to manage it.

2. Create a routine
   Try to set up a regular bathroom schedule. Encouraging the person you care for to go to the bathroom at certain times, like after meals or before bed, can help prevent accidents. A timer might help remind them to stick to a routine.

3. Make the bathroom easy to find
   Ensure that the bathroom is accessible and easy to locate. Clear pathways, nightlights, and signs with words or pictures can make a big difference. You might also consider leaving the bathroom door open when it’s not in use. Handrails or a raised toilet seat can help if they have mobility issues.

4. Use protective products
   There are many discreet products available, like absorbent pads, incontinence pants, and waterproof mattress covers, which can help manage accidents and help keep them comfortable.

5. Choose easy clothing
   Loose, easy-to-remove clothing like trousers with elastic waistbands or Velcro fastenings can make bathroom trips easier. Avoid clothing with buttons or zips that are hard to manage. Switching from tights to pop socks can also make things simpler.

6. Monitor fluids
   Encourage them to drink regularly, but limit drinks like caffeine and fizzy drinks that might increase the need to urinate. Try to reduce fluid intake a couple of hours before bedtime to help with nighttime incontinence.

7. Support healthy bowels
   A balanced diet with plenty of fibre can help prevent constipation, which can contribute to incontinence. Encourage the person to stay active, as exercise helps with digestion and regular bowel movements.

8. Toilet access while out and about
   If you go out and about with the person, you can apply for a Just Can’t Wait card. This gives access to toilets in cafes, restaurants, and other places that might not be open to the public. It’s free and widely recognised, making days out easier. Find out more: https://www.bbuk.org.uk/just-cant-wait-cards/