Practical help for incontinence

For most people, going to the toilet is a routine part of their day - something you hardly notice. But for an elderly person, they may want to use the toilet but be unable to use it, or even to find it. Here are some tips:
* Make sure the person in your care knows where the toilet is - a sign on the door can help.
* Make sure that access to the toilet is clear and there is no furniture, clutter or junk which will prevent
easy access to the toilet for an elderly person.
* Leave the toilet door open when it is not in use. If it is always closed, an elderly person may think
that someone is in there.
* Make sure the toilet is easy to use. Handrails can be installed - seek the advice of an occupational
therapist, who can offer advice on how to make a toilet easy to use.
* Make sure the elderly person's clothes can be quickly removed and unfastened. Velcro is often
easier for old people to manage rather than zips or buttons.
* If getting to a toilet becomes impossible, a commode may be the answer.
Ask your occupational therapist or community nurse for advice.