What Carers should know about Incontinence

I remember many years ago the shock of discovering that my elderly mother had become incontinent. It just seemed an impossible situation and looking after her as a carer, I wish I'd known then what I know now. The majority of people who suffer incontinence are over sixty and older people are much more liable to become incontinent because of weakened pelvic muscles, enlarged prostrate glands in men, recurrent uniarary tract infections or simply that they have slowed down and cannot get to the loo quick enough!

Developing incontinence can seriously affect an older person's self esteem.  They may feel dirty, humiliated and totally embarrassed to have to wear incontinence pads and accept help from carers  to manage their condition. People with dementia may find their condition acutely distressing and they may try and hide the evidence  - for example they may take off their urine soaked garments  and hide them with their clean underwear.  Confusion about where the toilet is can also result in them relieving themselves in inappropriate places.

The first thing to remember in dealing with someone who has incontinence is that they have no control over this condition.  Try not to get angry or upset and never show embarrassment or disgust.  Try to remain calm and deal with the situation  for both of you in a dignified and practical manner.

Here are some things you can do to help the person who is suffering with dementia and is having trouble getting to the toilet on time:
1. Remind him/her where the toilet is with a sign on the door of the toilet or bathroom
2. Try leaving the toilet door open so that it's obvious what the room is
3. Ensure that the toilet is easy to use with guard rails and hand rails to steady him/her
4. Ensure that clothing is easy to take off and put on again. Velcro is easier than having to fumble with buttons and zips.
5. Ensure that there is a clear passage to the toilet and there are no chairs or other clutter in the way.

There are also some aids which could be useful to help with managing the condition:
1. Incontinence pads
These are like large nappies and come in different absorbencies for day and night. Your local continence nurse can advise on what is most suitable. If using these be vigilant in keeping the groin area clean and use a barrier cream like Sudocrem to prevent chafing and rashes.  Ensure that the pads are changed regularly and use a nappy sack to dispose of them hygienically.
2. Waterproof mattress covers, and Kylies
Mattress covers, protective duvet and pillow cover can all be  purchased reasonably in larger home ware stores.  A much better solution  is a coverlet called a "Kylie" which lays on top of the sheets and  can absorb up to two litres of liquid .  The Kylie is good for keeping the sheets dry and you can also purchase a Kylie coverlet for a chair. 
3. Commodes
These may be the answer if the incontinent person is just not able to get to the toilet quick enough.  A commode by the bed can prevent late night accidents and just maintain that bit of independence which is so precious.

If accidents do occur, its really important to deal with them quickly and efficiently.  Leaving someone in dirty wet clothes or bedlinen can lead to sores, unirary tract  infections and skin infections.  Use soap and warm water whenever you can.  Large wet wipes are also useful. Change into dry clothing and wash the soiled items as soon as possible.  Always use a nappy sack to dispose of soiled pads and keep them in a seperate bin away from kitchen waste to prevent cross infections.

Incontinence can be managed effectively by good hygiene and goood practice.  If you need further help you can contact the Continence nurse through your GP's surgery or call us at SureCare and we may be able to help or point you in the right direction.

For more information on SureCare please go to http://www.surecarewarks.co.uk/