My mom seems to be having a urinary incontinence problem. How can I help her?
Aging sometimes brings with it changes that can lead to incontinence. Older people
(and their adult children) are frequently embarrassed by this problem, but they should be reminded that they are not alone in having this problem. In fact, more than 13 million Americans suffer from this condition, and at least half of the elderly are affected. Incontinence can have a variety of causes. Urinary incontinence at any age should be evaluated by a doctor, who can suggest and guide the best course of action. Many treatment options are available to help improve the management of this condition.
Here are some additional practical recommendations:
Use good lighting in the hallway and bathroom. Bedside commodes and urinals can be helpful.
Aids such as a raised toilet seat or a wall-mounted grab bar can help people who are unsteady on their feet.
Remove floor mats and make sure the seat is securely fastened to the toilet.
Clothing with Velcro fasteners or stretch waistbands may be easier to manage than clothing with zippers or buttons.
Machine washable garments are usually preferred over items that require dry cleaning or ironing.
For individuals with dementia, placing a picture of a toilet on the bathroom door can help them locate the bathroom.
Contributed by Janet Kurland, LCSW-C, Senior Care Specialist, Jewish Community Services, Baltimore, MD
