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Incontinence is perhaps a condition that causes the loss of bladder control and may lead to a stressful state for caregivers as well as the elderly. Around 50% of the elderly face some sort of continence that is quite embarrassing at times.

When we talk about caregivers handling the adults with incontinence, it could be a major contributor to burnout.

Here are quick and efficient tips for the caregivers caring for the elderly with incontinence that can help them in managing the situation while maintaining their stress.

Seek Medical Attention

It may sound obvious that medical help in this regard is a crucial aspect but most of the times caregivers consider it to be an unavoidable part of aging. There could be several underlying medical issues that may cause the bladder to function irregularly.

It may be an infection or simmer issue that is causing the problem. Seeking medical help in this regard is perhaps the perfect option that can treat the ailment and eventually reduce the future occurrence chances.

Maintain an Exercise Schedule

It is necessarily crucial for the elderly to get involved in some kind of exercise (if it’s possible). This is perhaps an effective way to strengthen the pelvic muscles. This shows significant results in minimizing the symptoms up to an extent.

It is advised that one should consider consulting their medical practitioner before starting any kind of exercise for curing incontinence.

Ensure a Fixed Bathroom Schedule

The caregivers must ensure that elderly individuals have a fixed routine for overall well-being. This is perhaps the best way to make their body function in the appropriate way by following a bathroom schedule.

It might be tough for the ones with Alzheimer’s or Dementia patients but at least, one can try. Once they are habitual of this practice, you would eventually witness a decrease in the number of incidents.

Monitor their Diet

There’s a long list of foods and beverages that can trigger the symptoms of incontinence. As per the recent survey-acidic fruits, caffeine & carbonated drinks could lead to severe incontinence in the elderly.

Furthermore, sugary foods, chocolates, spiced food, alcohol, and artificial sweeteners contribute to bladder-related issues. It is strongly recommended to limit the amount of the trigger food and beverages, which could be very helpful in the long run.

Apart from this, it is crucial for the caregivers to encourage their elderly to drink more fluids that improve the functionality of the bladder and minimizes the chances of the incident.

Ensure Waterproofing for Mattress and Chairs

One of the annoying things associated with incontinence is the cleaning part. Things around your home could be messed up if you don’t consider waterproofing the essential areas including the bed mattress, chairs, and a recliner.

As a caregiver, clothing can be easily cleaned by the means of a washing machine but it becomes a daunting task to maintain a clean and odor-free bed. Make sure you use waterproof mattress and pillow covers and also ensure waterproofing of chairs and other furniture used by the elderly.

These are perhaps the ways that can eventually help caregivers in dealing with incontinence more efficiently without getting mentally & physically exhausted.