For caregivers, urinary incontinence can be a very sensitive issue. It’s difficult for many older people to handle on their own and frequent leaks can be embarrassing – even humiliating. So how can a caregiver help ease their loved one into trying incontinence liners, pads or underwear?
Here are three suggestions on how to talk about urinary incontinence with your loved one.
- Don’t say “diaper”
What adult wants to wear “diapers?” Diapers are for babies and toddlers who haven’t been potty trained. Any adult would feel helpless and embarrassed to think that they’ve regressed to being watched after and changed like a baby. Here’s a better way to talk about urinary incontinence products: call them by a different name. Try “pad” or “brief.” A simple change in language can empower your loved one by proving you respect them as an independently functioning adult.
- Have your loved one talk to a doctor or a peer
Are you having trouble convincing your loved one to try bladder incontinence leak protection? Or maybe the topic is too hard to even discuss? Not only are urinary leaks embarrassing, they are embarrassing to talk about – especially for many elderly parents to discuss with their own children.
That’s why the incontinence issue may be better approached by a non-family member like an old friend or a doctor. A peer can empathize with the challenges of aging and connect on an emotional level to comfort your loved one. He or she may even share advice based on their own personal experiences. A doctor can reassure them that their challenge is normal and faced by many other patients of similar age.
- Find the right fit
Different degrees of urinary incontinence require different levels of protection. Find an Always Discreet urinary incontinence product that matches your loved one’s leakage level and protection needs. For light leaks, try liners or pads. For heavier leaking, try our underwear.
Having the right protection will help your loved one stay confident and active because they don’t have to constantly worry about embarrassing leaks or odors. The right protection can help them feel free of the restrictions of incontinence–and they’ll have you to thank for it!