Dealing with Dementia and Incontinence

Dealing with Dementia and Incontinence
12 April 2023

Dealing with Dementia and Incontinence

Dealing with incontinence can be a really challenging aspect of caring for a loved one with dementia. Not only is it a difficult topic to discuss, but it can also be physically and emotionally draining. 

However, it's important to remember that incontinence is a common symptom of dementia, and there are strategies that caregivers can use to manage it effectively. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips and techniques for dealing with the incontinence of a dementia patient.

Understand why someone with dementia might struggle with incontinence

Understanding why someone with dementia might struggle with incontinence is an important part of managing their symptoms. 

  • Dementia can affect a person's ability to recognize and respond to the urge to use the bathroom
  • Dementia can affect a person's ability to communicate their needs effectively
  • Dementia can cause physical changes that contribute to incontinence, such as weakened pelvic muscles or decreased bladder capacity

1. Medication management 

Managing medication for someone with dementia and incontinence can be challenging, but there are strategies that can help ensure that medications are taken safely and effectively. It's important to keep track of all medications and dosages, and to make sure that they are taken as prescribed.

  • Caregivers should discuss medication management with a healthcare professional, who can evaluate the patient's medication regimen and make adjustments if necessary. 

     

  • They may recommend simplifying the medication regimen or using pillboxes or alarms to help the patient remember to take their medications.

     

  • Monitor the patient for side effects or adverse reactions to medication, and to report any concerns to their healthcare provider promptly. 

Effective medication management can help prevent complications related to incontinence, as well as improve overall quality of life for your loved one.

2. Create a toileting schedule

One of the most effective strategies for managing incontinence in dementia patients is to create a toileting schedule. This involves setting regular times for the patient to use the toilet, even if they do not feel the urge to go. 

By establishing a routine, caregivers can reduce the risk of accidents and help the patient maintain continence. It's important to be consistent with the toileting schedule and to encourage the patient to use the toilet even if they resist or seem reluctant.

3. Make it easy to find a bathroom

Making it easy to find a bathroom is an important part of managing incontinence in someone with dementia. Caregivers can:

  • Make sure that bathrooms are easily accessible and well-lit, with clear signage and markings to help the person with dementia navigate their surroundings. 

     

  • Provide a portable toilet or commode in the bedroom or living area, to make toileting more convenient and reduce the risk of accidents.

4. Use absorbent products

Products, such as incontinence pads or briefs, can be helpful for managing accidents and providing protection for the patient. These products are available in a range of sizes and absorbency levels, so it's important to choose the right product for the patient's needs. 

Consider if your loved one is male or female, if they suffer from night time incontinence, or if they would be more comfortable wearing washable or disposable products. It's also important to ensure that the patient is comfortable wearing the product and that it does not cause irritation or discomfort.

5. Communicate with your loved one

Communicating effectively with someone who is incontinent and has dementia is crucial for maintaining their dignity and promoting their well-being. It is important to:

  • Approach communication with empathy and respect

     

  • Use simple and clear language

     

  • Use nonverbal cues like facial expressions and gestures to convey meaning

     

  • Allow adequate time for the person to respond and avoid interrupting or rushing them

     

  • Use visual aids like pictures or written prompts to facilitate communication

     

  • Provide reassurance and positive reinforcement

6. Maintain good hygiene

Incontinence can increase the risk of skin irritation and infection, so it's important to maintain good hygiene practices. This includes washing the patient's genitals and bottom thoroughly with warm water and soap, and applying a barrier cream to protect the skin. Caregivers should also change the patient's incontinence products regularly and clean any soiled clothing or bedding promptly.

7. Think outside the box with behavioural approaches

Behavioural approaches are non-medical interventions that can be used to manage incontinence in dementia patients. 

Prompted voiding is one such approach that involves reminding the patient to use the toilet at regular intervals. This can be done verbally or through the use of cues, such as pictures or signs. 

Habit training is another approach that involves establishing a routine of toileting at specific times, as well as using positive reinforcement, such as praise or rewards, for successful toileting. 

These approaches can be used in conjunction with a toileting schedule, as mentioned above, or even as a standalone intervention.

8. Seek support and advice

Caring for a loved one with dementia can be overwhelming, and dealing with incontinence can add an extra layer of stress. 

It's important for caregivers to seek support and advice from healthcare professionals, support groups, or other caregivers who have experienced similar challenges. They can provide guidance on managing incontinence, offer emotional support, and help caregivers feel less isolated and overwhelmed.

9. Get professional support

Caring for a loved one with dementia and incontinence can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Caregivers may benefit from professional support, such as working with a home health aide or a nurse who has experience caring for dementia patients with incontinence. 

Home health aides can provide assistance with the following activities: 

  • Toileting and hygiene
  • Respite care to give caregivers a break
  • Guidance on managing incontinence, medication management, and other aspects of dementia care
  • Emotional support and counselling

Additionally, support groups for caregivers of dementia patients can offer a sense of community and camaraderie, as well as opportunities to share experiences and advice.

Keep your loved one happy and comfortable with our incontinence products

Dealing with the incontinence of a dementia patient can be challenging, but it's important to remember that it's a common symptom of the disease. 

By understanding the underlying causes of incontinence, creating a toileting schedule, using absorbent products like the ones from our extensive range, maintaining good hygiene practices, and seeking support and advice, caregivers can manage incontinence effectively and improve the quality of life for both the patient and themselves. Remember to take care of yourself as well, and seek help when needed.