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Applying Adult Briefs in the Lying Down Position

by Kimberly Johnson
written by Kimberly Johnson

Applying Adult Briefs in the Lying Down Position

Instructional video & list of steps for caregivers applying adult briefs to a patient in the lying down position.
Application Demonstration: How to apply an adult brief in the lying down position.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tRuNupusIPc
A

Proper cleaning techniques will maintain skin integrity and prevent infections, just as prompt and proper disposal of soiled diapers will keep patient environment clean and odor free.

List of Necessary Items

  1. Sturdy Plastic Basin/Bowl/Bucket to be filled with warm water
  2. Toilet Paper
  3. Soft Wash Cloths/Disposable Wipes (See washcloths and wipes.)
  4. Soft Towel for drying
  5. Mild Soap/Hypoallergenic Body Wash
  6. Protective Cream
  7. Powder/ talc or cornstarch
  8. Incontinent Disposable briefs/pull-ups (See adult diapers and briefs.)
  9. Portable container for ready access to supplies
  10. Lined Trash Can
  11. Plastic Disposable Gloves

Steps for Changing a Bed Bound Patient

  1. Assemble supplies in a portable container
  2. Discuss the process with recipient before and during care
  3. Fill the Basin/Bowl/Bucket with warm water
  4. Bring a Lined Trash Can next to bed for easy access for disposal of soiled paper products
  5. Put on Gloves
  6. If incontinent briefs are being used, remove soiled brief, careful not to drop and contents.
  7. Initially wipe away as much stool or urine as possible with toilet paper or facial tissue and discard into lined trash can.
  8. Wet and wring wash cloth, and apply minimal amount of body wash to first cloth. Be careful not to splash water, especially after it is used.
  9. Wash front genital area first-discard disposable wipe into plastic bag or trash can, (wash cloths should be placed into separate bag or can). This single use method will keep the basin water clean and prevent contamination/infection.
  10. Wet and wring additional wash cloths or disposable cloths- remembering to wipe from front to back until all visible incontinence has been removed and area is clean.
  11. Rinse thoroughly.
  12. Dry area with soft towels.
  13. Apply protective cream to buttocks and groin folds.
  14. Apply powder to dry clean cloth and dust area around waist or between skin folds.
  15. Remove gloves.
  16. Apply incontinent brief/pullup.
  17. Remove liner from trash can and dispose of it.
  18. Follow washing instructions for washcloths and towels.

Reminder

Repositioning may be necessary to complete this cleaning process

Helpful Tips

*If a hospital bed is in use, raise the bed to the caregiver’s waist height to avoid back strain.

*To prevent leakage from incontinent briefs and prevent frequent full linen changes, ensure that a bed pad or disposable paper pad is positioned from under the waist to the mid thigh area

For individuals who change themselves, follow these steps.

Steps for Changing Oneself in the Lying Down Position

  1. Gather all of your supplies. (See list above.)
  2. Lie flat on a bed or in another comfortable area making sure all clothing and other fabric is out of the way.
  3. Undo the tapes of the diaper.
  4. (Keep the dirty diaper beneath you should have an accident.)
  5. Bend your knees putting your feet flat on the surface.
  6. Raise your bottom in the air off the surface on which you are lying.
  7. Begin wiping from front to back. (Put the dirty wipes in trash bag next to you.)
  8. Wipe until clean.
  9. Roll up the dirty diaper and throw it away.
  10. Unfold the clean diaper and put it beneath you with the tabs in the back.
  11. Apply any cream or powder you need.
  12. Pull the front of the diaper up between your legs and fasten the tabs.
  13. You’re done.

Steps for Changing Oneself in the Standing Position

  1. Make sure all clothing is out of the way. (Pull your pants down to your ankles or tuck your dress under your chin.)
  2. Undo the tapes of your diaper and fold it up. (Place in plastic bag.)
  3. Clean yourself carefully over the toilet to catch accidents.
  4. Apply any necessary cream.
  5. Open the clean diaper.
  6. Put tabbed part around your waist in the back and pull the other end through your legs.
  7. Fasten the tabs on one side and then do the same on the other.
  8. Squeeze small amounts of powder down the front and back of the diaper.
  9. Fasten your clothes.
  10. You are done.
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Health Products

Selecting a Walker

by Kimberly Johnson
written by Kimberly Johnson

Selecting a Walker

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KfDkmIv1aTk

Selecting a Front Wheel Walker (Also called: Two Wheel or 2WW)

Selecting a Walker

Front wheel or two wheel walkers for elderly are much like standard walkers but with wheels on the front and often have skids/skis on the rear legs. This allows it to more easily slide on the ground.
Similar to a folding walker, they can usually fold in half to store in the trunk of a car, etc.

Who Should Use a Front Wheel Walker?

Elderly who need to place some weight onto the walker (but not all). It is also light weight, easy to transport and slides across the floor. Some people who have rollator walkers for elderly also have front wheel walkers to take with them when they travel as they are foldable, lightweight and can more easily fit in the trunk of a car.

Who Should NOT Use a Front Wheel Walker?

Elderly who need to place most of their weight on the walker – for example, if the doctor does not want them to place any weight on an injured foot/leg or post hip surgery. Although they are lighter than rollator walkers for elderly, they do not work well outside.

How to Use a Front Wheel Walker

  1. Adjust to proper height – See below for how to fit walker.
  2. Get in position – Place both hands on the handles.
  3. Stand upright – This will likely place the users toes/midfoot in line with the rear legs.
  4. Advance walker – Push the walker in front of you so that you are walking within the walker.
  5. Walk into the walker – If the senior has a sore leg/foot or a leg that the doctor does not want them to put full weight through, then advance this leg first followed quickly by the other.
  6. Small steps – Take small steps especially while turning around – for example to get into a chair.
  7. No lifting needed – The advantage of these types of walkers for elderly over standard walkers is that the senior does not need to pick it up to walk.

Recommended Features

  • Large fixed – Larger wheels roll better over uneven ground. Some front wheel walkers for elderly have swivelling wheels (like a shopping cart) but they are not as stable as the fixed wheels.
  • Lightweight – Light enough so the user can easily manoeuvre it as well as pick it up to place in car trunk, etc. That being said, if the user is a rather large individual, they will need to make sure it is strong enough to carry their weight.
  • Sturdy – Make sure the walker legs are sturdy and even. Some poorly made walkers have legs that are not exactly even so that it rocks. This makes it difficult to use and is a safety risk.
  • Foldable – Make sure it can fold in half so that it is easy to take in the trunk of a car, etc.

Accessories

  • Skis/Skids/Tennis Balls – These allow the rear legs to slide more easily on the ground than the regular rubber tips.
  • Oxygen tank holders – This can be difficult to manage as it increases the weight of the walker making it more difficult to move.
  • Trays/Bags – The bags are more useful than the trays as items can easily fall off the tray and are more likely to stay in the bag. These can be excellent additions to a folding walker as both hands are in use while using the walker (ie. no free hand to carry items around house).
  • Foam handles – They make walkers for elderly more comfortable – especially for those with arthritis – as the user will be placing a fair amount of weight onto the handles while using it.

Selecting a Rollator Walker (Also called: 4 Wheel or 4WW)

walkers for elderly

Rollators (also called 4 wheel walkers) are just that – walkers for elderly with four wheels, brakes, a seat and a basket/bag. They work well both indoors and outdoors – especially models with large wheels that easily roll over uneven ground and carpet.

Who Should Use a Rollator?

Elderly who need a walker for balance but do not need to put much weight onto it. It is also beneficial for seniors who need a seat to rest, want to carry items and want the security of having something to hold onto when walking. Most versions are also foldable and can fit in the trunk of a car. The styles with larger wheels are recommended as they roll easier on uneven ground and are usually more stable.

Who Should NOT Use A Rollator?

Elderly who have a sore foot/leg/hip and the doctor does not want them to place weight onto it (ex. post hip surgery). This is usually temporary and the senior can progress to a rollator at a later date.
Elderly with significant balance, strength and endurance issues. They may be safer using a two wheel walker or wheelchair – depending on what is causing their difficulty walking.

How to Use a Rollator

  1. Adjust to proper height – see below for how to fit a walker
  2. Lock brakes – I recommend locking the brakes anytime elderly are sitting down on the walker’s seat or getting up/down from a chair/bed/couch with the walker in front of them. On most rollator walkers with seats, the senior can lock the brakes by pressing the brake levers down till they lock in place. This ensures the walker will not roll away from the user.
  3. Get in position – Place both hands on the handles.
  4. Stand upright – This will likely place the users toes/midfoot in line with the rear wheels
  5. Walk normally – Try to stay in a normal upright walking position and not to hunch over or get the walker to far ahead.
  6. Small steps – Take small steps especially while turning around – for example to turn around to get into a chair.
  7. Using seat – Find level ground, lock brakes, turn around and sit down. Do not sit down to hard as brakes are built for light hold only.

Recommended Features

  • Large wheels – Larger wheels roll over uneven ground easier which makes it more enjoyable to use outside and also safer.
  • Lightweight – Some walkers are too heavy for smaller seniors as they cannot push them around easily – putting them at risk of falling.
  • Easy to use brakes – Some brakes are too stiff for elderly so be sure to have the senior try the brakes – both squeezing them as well as locking them.
  • Padded seat – Elderly will use the seat if it is comfortable.
  • Basket/Bag – I prefer models that allow easy access to the basket/bag while in the normal walking position. Baskets that are only accessible by reaching over top or around the walker are not safe and inconvenient.

Accessories

  • Standard options – Most walkers come with several standard features such as a basket/bag and padded seat.
  • Oxygen tank holders – Some walkers have enough room in the basket/bag for an oxygen tank or small portable concentrator. Others will benefit from an oxygen tank holder. Make sure it keeps the weight low to the ground or it makes the walker top heavy and prone to tipping over – Especially on uneven ground outside (such as a curb cutout at a crosswalk).
  • Cane holder – To hold their cane securely.
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Health Products

Composite Bath Bench and Transfer Bench Guide

by Kimberly Johnson
written by Kimberly Johnson

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CFcGAfLIezQ
 

moen_bath_bench
Bathtub Transfer Benches
A transfer bench allows you to sit down on the bath seat while both of your legs are still positioned outside of the tub. Once safely seated, you simply need to lift one leg at a time over the bathtub wall and scoot your bottom sideways across the bench top until you arrive in the center of the tub.
PROS:

  1. No installation required.
  2. Eliminates the need to “step” over the bathtub wall.
CONS:

  1. If your bathroom is small and you use a walker or wheelchair, keep in mind that the bench legs residing on the floor outside the tub wall may get in your way when you are trying to move and turn around inside the bathroom.
  2. These bench-style bath seats extend over the bathtub’s wall, making it hard to tuck the shower curtain inside and therefore more difficult to keep water inside. (Some people remedy this by making cuts in the shower curtain.)
  3. A bath bench generally works best in a bathtub with a square-ish shaped bottom. If your tub curves in on the bottom edges, be aware that the bench’s interior legs will rest at the point where your tub bottom flattens out. This in turn means the center of the bath seat will be pushed outwards over the tub wall and you could find yourself sitting with one leg inside the bathtub and one leg outside. If you do have a tub with rounded bottom edges, and want a tub bench, opt for a model with screw-style adjustable height legs because this type can be more finely adjusted to accomodate the varying heights of the tubs curves.Bathtub Chairs

Bathtub Chairs
As with the bathtub bench described above, you have the option to back up and sit down on the side of the bath chair’s seat while both of your legs are still positioned outside the bathtub. From a safe seated position, you can then lift one leg at a time over the bathtub wall and turn your hips to face the shower head. Or, if your balance skills are sufficient to do so, alternatively you can “step” over the bathtub wall and then sit down on the bath seat.

Bathtub Chair
Bathtub Chairs
PROS

  1. All four chair legs remain inside the bathtub (unlike for the bath bench mentioned above). Hence a bath chair’s legs won’t occupy any of the valuable floor space a person using a walker or wheelchair needs to be able to move and turn around inside the bathroom.
  2. No installation required
CONS

    You must have more strength and balance skills to lean back further in order to sit on a bathtub ‘chair’ positioned fully inside the tub, as opposed to sitting on a ‘bathtub bench’ that has a seat that extends out over the tub wall. If you decide a bathtub “chair” is the best solution for your needs, we recommend to select a model that has a wide flat seat so there will be more surface area to safely land on.

 

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Health Products

BathBench with Back Instruction

by Kimberly Johnson
written by Kimberly Johnson

BathBench with Back Instruction
 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2JOOroTKp70
The benefit of a bath bench or bath chair is you have the option to back up and sit down on the side of the bath chair’s seat while both of your legs are still positioned outside the bathtub. From a safe seated position, you can then lift one leg at a time over the bathtub wall and turn your hips to face the shower head. Or, if your balance skills are sufficient to do so, alternatively you can “step” over the bathtub wall and then sit down on the bath seat.

PROS

  1. All four chair legs remain inside the bathtub (unlike for the bath bench mentioned above). Hence a bath chair’s legs won’t occupy any of the valuable floor space a person using a walker or wheelchair needs to be able to move and turn around inside the bathroom.
  2. Easy installation
CONS

You must have more strength and balance skills to lean back further in order to sit on a bathtub ‘chair’ positioned fully inside the tub, as opposed to sitting on a ‘bathtub bench’ that has a seat that extends out over the tub wall. If you decide a bathtub “chair” is the best solution for your needs, we recommend to select a model that has a wide flat seat so there will be more surface area to safely land on.

 
For a full list of bathroom safety products click here.

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Health Products

Buying the Right Cane

by Kimberly Johnson
written by Kimberly Johnson

Buying the Right Cane

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YoePVpwOao

What kind of cane should I choose?

Your caregiver will help you choose the right cane for your needs. Canes are made from wood, plastic, or metal. A cane can be adjusted to fit your height. The bottom of the cane usually has a nonskid rubber tip to prevent it from slipping. The following are common kinds of canes:

  • Standard canes have a rounded crook handle. Use a cane with a wooden or plastic handle instead of metal. A metal handle may slip from your hand. In cold weather, the metal handle may get too cold for you to touch.
  • Straight-handle canes , or T-handle canes, are used if your hand is weak.
  • Broad-based canes are lightweight canes with 3 or 4 short legs. These legs give you the most support. You may need this type of cane if it is hard for you to keep your balance.
    Cane Types

How do I use the cane?

  • To walk on flat floors:
    • Put the cane about 4 inches (10 cm) to the side of your stronger leg.
    • Put weight on your stronger side.
    • Move the cane about 4 inches (10 cm) in front of your stronger leg and bring your weaker leg forward at the same time.
    • Use the cane to help keep your weight off your weaker leg and move your stronger leg ahead.
    • Place your heel a little beyond the tip of the cane.
  • To use on stairs: Ask your caregiver to show you how to safely use your cane on stairs. Do not use your cane on the stairs unless someone is with you.
  • To get into a chair:
    • Stand with the back of your legs against the chair seat.
    • Rest the cane against the chair.
    • Reach back with both hands to grip the chair arms.
    • Lift your weaker leg slightly off the floor.
    • Put all your weight on your stronger leg.
    • Slowly sit down and slide back into the chair.
  • To get out of a chair:
    • Hold your cane with your stronger hand.
    • Grasp the arms of the chair.
    • Put your stronger foot a little forward.
    • Lean slightly forward and push on the arms of the chair to raise yourself.
    • Stand with your cane about 4 inches (10 cm) to the side of your stronger foot.

What are some cane safety tips I should know?

  • Wear shoes with rubber soles , such as tennis shoes. Slippers should not be worn because they can slide off your feet and cause a fall. Do not wear shoes with leather heels or soles that may slide.
  • Check the floor to be sure it is safe. The floor must be clean, dry, and well lit. Remove throw rugs to prevent falls. Tape or nail down loose carpet edges. Keep the traffic areas and the floor free of clutter.
  • Stand for a few seconds before you start to walk with your cane. This will help prevent dizziness.
  • Look straight ahead when you walk. You may run into or trip over something if you look at your feet.
  • Use a backpack or a bag with a long strap that you can wear across your body. This will keep your hands free. Try not to carry heavy things.

Source: Truven Health Analytics Inc. Information

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Health Products

Benefits of Transport Chairs

by Kimberly Johnson
written by Kimberly Johnson

Benefits of Transport Chairs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W3XGPwUrxM8

People use wheelchairs for a number of different mobility problems with a number of different causes, but the goal is always to remain as mobile and independent as possible. So what would be the benefit of using a transport wheelchair, which does not allow its user to travel independently, and requires another person be present in order for the user to be moved?
People may benefit from the use of transport chairs if they are in a situation where they cannot, due to physical or mental limitations, use a motorized wheelchair to transport themselves. This is an extreme situation, considering the fact that power wheelchairs are designed to be operated even by people with minimal muscle strength or hand coordination. In cases of total paralysis or lack of limbs, a person may need help to get around.
A person who could operate an electric wheelchair with extreme difficulty but who needs constant medical assistance for any aspect of their physical condition may opt for the use of a transport chair for the matter of cost and convenience. Transport chairs are the least expensive wheelchairs on the market, as well as being extremely light-weight. If a person does not need constant medical assistance, an electric wheelchair will pay for itself in a matter of weeks because the user will not have to pay a nurse. But if a wheelchair user needs medical assistance and has trouble using an electric wheelchair, they can save money by using a transport chair, and at the same time reduce the weight the medical assistant will have to push if your wheelchair has a motor.
Otherwise, transport chairs are generally only used for temporary situations. They are used to transport hospital patients or for people who are temporarily too weak to walk or use a manual wheelchair because they are recovering from an illness or medical procedure. If traveling with a companion, an electric wheelchair user may opt for a transport chair because it is a low-cost and extremely light-weight and portable mobility device. If you’re going on vacation, however, you do also have the option of renting a power wheelchair at your destination, and transportable power wheelchairs are available which can be brought on a plane. If you travel frequently by yourself, this is a good investment, although the weight is still much heavier than that of a transport chair. If you travel with a companion who is willing to push you around, a transport chair is an economic option.
When independent mobility is impossible to achieve or for temporary situations, a transport wheelchair is an inexpensive option to help you get around.
Article Source: EzineArticles, Adam Hefner
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Health Products

Measuring Tips for Walkers, Chairs, Canes, Crutches

by Kimberly Johnson
written by Kimberly Johnson

Measuring Tips for Walkers, Chairs, Canes, Crutches

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R6etSPfMucQ

How to Measure for a Walker Measuring Tips for Walkers, Chairs, Canes, Crutches

When preparing to buy a walker, you need to make sure it can accommodate your height, especially if you are very tall or short. You may need a special petite walker, or walker leg extensions. Get a friend or family member to help you measure yourself.

  1. Start by standing up straight with your shoes on.
  2. Allow your hands to hang naturally at your sides.
  3. Measure from the crease in your wrist to the floor.
  4. This length should be your handle height.
  5. If possible, choose a walker that adjusts at least one inch higher and lower than your actual measurement so you can adjust it as necessary.

Measuring for Crutch Length Measuring Tips for Walkers, Chairs, Canes, Crutches

A. IN LYING : (shoes on)

      • Elbow is flexed to 15 degrees; measurement is taken from the ulnar styloid process to a point 20 cm lateral to the heel of the shoe.

B. IN STANDING :

      • 2” laterally and 6” anteriorly to the foot.
      • Height should be adjusted with relaxed shoulders to provide 20-30 degrees of elbow flexion.

Wheelchair Measuring Guide

Wheelchair measurements are critical for everyday wheelchair users to have a comfortable and functional piece of equipment which will meet all their needs and provide for the best possible results. This guide is by no means etched in stone and often there are circumstances which require ignoring the basic rules of thumb for measuring a wheelchair however this guide is applicable to 90% of the wheelchair user population.
Seat Width: Seat width is usually the width of the user plus 1″
Seat Depth: Seat depth is usually the seat depth of the user less 1″ or 2″.
Seat Height: Seat height is usually the height of the user where they are able to access tables and tranfer without too much difficulty.
Footrest Length: The footrest should be the distance from the back of the knee to bottom of the heel while wearing the shoes the user usually wears.
Back Height: Back height will vary from user to user but normaly should be a little above the middle of the back around the bottom of the shoulder blades.
Note: When a wheelchair cushion is used, the thickness of the cushion has to be figured into the measurments for all of these parameters except the seat depth.

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Rolling Walker and Transport Chair Benefits
Health Products

Rolling Walker and Transport Chair Benefits

by Kimberly Johnson
written by Kimberly Johnson

 

The flexibility and freedom a rollator transport chair can offer over a traditional rollator is well worth the additional cost. A rollator transport chair can very easily and quickly be converted into a convenient and lightweight wheelchair or rollator. The benefits of this ability is especially helpful when you are traveling, needing to go shopping, or have had an operation such as a hip operation or knee replacement.Rolling Walker and Transport Chair Benefits
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GOu4cm0wE48
The traditional wheelchair is heavy and cumbersome, making it extremely difficult to get in and out of vehicles. A rollator transport chair is much lighter and can easily be lifted into the trunk of the car and making them easier to take with you on trips where if you go. Click here to see the best rollator transport chairs. Rolling Walker and Transport Chair Benefits

They make a wonderful, two in one transport chair if you are transitioning from an injury or operation such as a hip replacement or knee surgery. You can start with it as a transport chair, and as you regain your strength, you can work up to it as a supportive rollator walker to help you build up balance and muscle strength.

Weight is an essential consideration for a transport chair choice. They are lightweight and offer flexibility for travel, often folding into a smaller unit than your traditional wheelchairs or rollators and are considerably lighter in weight.
A rollator transport chair is perfect for using as a wheelchair in a busy shopping center or airport or used as a stable, supportive walking aid as you stroll around the country town on a day trip out.
Rollator transport chairs have smaller wheels than a wheelchair. Make sure when choosing your transport chair, the wheels are preferably around 8 inches as this will give you a smoother ride. Small wheels are not good on rough terrain and can give a bumpy, uncomfortable ride, plus making heavy work for the person wheeling transport chair.
The design and width of the seat is important. Be sure to look at the shape and design of the seat, is it padded, will it be large enough and what is made from… ? It is important to choose a rollator transport chair with a padded seat if you are going to be spending long periods of time sitting in it.

In Summary

When you need a carer to push you around during the times when you don’t feel stronger enough, are elderly or are recovering from operation, using a rollator transport chair which can double as rollator at a later date is invaluable. They are a much better option than a traditional wheelchair, offering the flexibly of being light, easy to transport in and out of cars when needed and can also provide confidence and support when walking.

Rolling Walker and Transport Chair Benefits

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Conditions & Treatments

What is Incontinence and How to Manage It

by Kimberly Johnson
written by Kimberly Johnson

MEDFIT23005What is Incontinence?
Incontinence is the loss of bladder or bowel control. Although it is a common and embarrassing problem, it is not a normal part of aging. Incontinence symptoms can be mild; such as an occasional slight loss of urine. Or symptoms can be very severe with a complete loss of control of both bladder and bowel. Most people’s symptoms fall somewhere in between.
Types of Incontinence
Stress incontinence happens when pressure or stress is placed on the bladder from sneezing, laughing, coughing or heavy lifting. A small amount of urine leaks out during these activities.
Urge incontinence causes such a strong urge to urinate that the person cannot hold it long enough to get to the toilet. People with urge incontinence have to urinate frequently and often wake up during the night with the urge to urinate.
Mixed incontinence is a combination of stress and urge incontinence. Many older people, especially women, have this type of incontinence.
Functional incontinence is when individuals can hold their urge to urinate but cannot get to the toilet by themselves.
Overflow incontinence is a constant leakage of a small amount of urine because the bladder never empties completely.
Transient incontinence is a temporary form of incontinence that goes away once the cause is treated. Illness is a common cause of transient incontinence.
Fecal incontinence is the loss of control of bowel movements. It can range from an occasional leakage of a small amount of stool to complete loss of bowel control. Constipation and diarrhea can cause fecal incontinence.
IMPORTANT: Be sure to discuss an individualized continence care plan with your physician or other healthcare providers.
What Causes Incontinence?
There are many causes of incontinence. Some of them include:

  • Urinary tract infection
  • Inflammation or anatomical abnormality in the urinary system
  • Prostate infection of inflammation
  • Stool impaction
  • Side effects of medication
  • Pregnancy
  • Weight gain
  • Short term bed rest
  • Mental confusion
  • Certain medical conditions:
    • Alzheimer’s Disease
    • Bladder cancer
    • Cerebral Palsy
    • Down Syndrome
    • Multiple Sclerosis
    • Muscular Dystrophy
    • Spina bifida
    • Stroke
    • Traumatic brain and spinal injuries

Common Misconceptions about Incontinence Products
Thicker is NOT always better. Some people believe that thicker products offer better protection against leakage. That’s not always true. New technology has super absorbent polymers (SAP). Each SAP is as tiny as a salt crystal. They expand and turn into a gel when fluid strikes them. This lets us make products thinner and more discreet. Old products were all pulp with no SAPs so they were extra bulky and extra thick.
Bladder pads are NOT the same as feminine hygiene pads. Bladder control pads have unique SAPs that allow them to absorb urine quickly.
Bladder pads are NOT for women only. Some men have light urinary incontinence. They can benefit from products that are thin, discreet and absorbent. Today’s bladder control pads are gender neutral, have an anatomically comfortable fit for both men and women, and the adhesive strip can be placed anywhere in the user’s underwear. Medline’s bladder control pads are even packaged to appeal to both men and women.
Incontinence MYTHS
All of these statements are FALSE:

  • Incontinence is a normal part of aging
  • Nothing can be done for incontinence
  • The only continence management system is a brief – a LARGE one.

Strategies for Managing Incontinence
Schedule voiding is a strategy used to help people who cannot get to the toilet on their own. An individualized schedule is developed for someone to take the person to the toilet at a specific time, usually every two to three hours. This strategy can help decrease the number of incontinent episodes.
Bladder retraining can be used with individuals who are aware of the urge to go to the bathroom and have the ability and desire to control the urge. A schedule is developed for someone to take the person to the toilet at specific times. In between the scheduled toileting, the individual works on controlling the urge to void.
Prompted voiding can successfully help people with incontinence have fewer episodes and increase their awareness of a full bladder. Again, an individualized schedule is developed, and the individual is prompted to go to the bathroom at specific times.
Pelvic floor muscle exercises, known as Kegels, can strengthen muscles to prevent urine from leaking out of the bladder. These exercises are very effective with stress and urge incontinence. Individuals who can understand and follow directions
Avoiding bladder irritants, such as caffeine, alcohol and carbonated beverages may decrease the number of incontinent episodes.
Some medication can also affect bladder function. Speak with your physician about how your medication might affect incontinence.
 

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