Incontinence and personal hygiene

If the elderly person in your care has had an accident, it is important to deal with it as soon as possible as it can be very uncomfortable and lead to unpleasant smells. Also, dampness next to the skin can cause sores. Here is some advice on what to do:
* If an elderly person has had an accident, cleanse the area using mild soap and warm water. Make sure you dry the area properly before putting on fresh pads and clothes.
* Moist hand wipes can be used for minor accidents.
* Wash any soiled clothes or bedding immediately. It's often a good idea to give them a good soaking.
* Dispose of used pads hygienically.

Incontinence is an unfortunate and embarrassing problem for many elderly people. It serves as a very real reminder that the body is not working properly and you need to deal with it in an efficient and dignified way so as not to cause extra distress.
Unfortunately, incontinence is not necessarily treatable in the elderly. Younger people who suffer from incontinence can do a series of exercises to strengthen the pelvic muscles or practice bladder control exercises. However, it is unreasonable to expect the elderly to do this. Medication is available to help to stem the problem, especially if the senior in question has a bladder, kidney or urinary tract infection, but it is not advisable for diabetics to take it and it may actually make symptoms worse. It is a natural part of aging and should be accepted as such really.

This doesn't help you if you are caring for someone who suffers from incontinence. You may well find yourself changing him or her every hour or so, which would also create a sense of embarrassment and discomfort for the individual in question. This also runs the risk of getting pressure sores. However, you can purchase incontinence pad that work much the same as nappies, absorbing moisture and sealing it away from the body. Although it may not feel comfortable to wear them, it may certainly be much better than sitting in wet clothes.

Incontinence is an unfortunate problem for many members of the elderly population because it is a result of the body breaking down. It is just a matter of learning how to cope with it without making the senior you care for feel too embarrassed and ashamed. That is totally dependent on the individual.