Caring for someone with incontinence

Look at three things: how much leakage (a few drops, small leaks, the bladder emptying), when (day, night, both) and how the person moves (independent, needs help, mostly in bed). These three answers decide almost everything.

Do not over-protect: a protection that is too absorbent for the need is bulkier, warmer and often less accepted. Start at the right level, adjust after a few days.

Briefs with tabs are changed lying down, without undressing the legs: for someone who needs help, they are easier than pull-ons. Open, roll the used product inwards, clean, dry, place the new one with the tabs at the back, close from bottom to top.

Protect your back: bed at hip height, the person turned on the side, never lift with the arms alone. Our eight-step video shows the gestures.

Redness starts where the skin stays wet and warm. Change as soon as the wetness indicator fades, clean with a mild product, dry by patting, apply a barrier cream if the skin is fragile. A breathable backsheet and soft non-woven help.

Any sore, blister or persistent redness needs a nurse or a doctor: do not wait.

At night, choose the night-level product (Maxi or Ultra) so nobody has to get up. An underpad on the mattress adds safety and spares the bedding. Reduce drinks in the two hours before bed, but never during the day: dehydration makes urine irritating.

Count the changes: typically 3 to 4 per day plus 1 at night. A more absorbent product often means fewer changes, less laundry and less time — and a lower total cost. Keep a week of stock ahead and a small kit for outings (a product, wipes, a bag).

Incontinence is common and is not a failure. Use simple words ("protection", "change"), ask rather than decide, keep the person's habits (their underwear over a pad when possible, their bathroom routine). Dignity is in the details: privacy during changes, no comments, products that look like clothing.

Sudden onset, pain or burning, blood in urine, fever, leakage after a fall or a new medication: see a doctor. Many causes are treatable (infection, medication, constipation, prostate). Pelvic-floor exercises help many people, including after 70.