Incontinence in Later Life – Causes, Prevention and Coping

Urinary incontinence is when the storage and release of urine from the bladder no longer functions as normal.

There can be many reasons for, and causes of, urinary incontinence, some leading to short-term conditions and others to long-term.

Urinary incontinence can be brought on by:

• family genes – urinary incontinence can prove to be a genetic condition, which is passed down through the family

• ageing – incontinence is common in middle age and very common in later years

• particular illnesses e.g. diabetes, stroke, multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease and dementia

• bladder problems and bladder infections.

Different Types of Incontinence

There are different types of urinary incontinence, including urge, stress, overflow, mixed, functional and also enuresis.

- Urge Incontinence

Urge incontinence can be because of minor, as well as severe, conditions e.g. an infection as opposed to diabetes or a neurological condition.

The urgent need to pass urine could be down to the muscles in the bladder walls.

The detrusor muscles relax to allow urine to enter the bladder and then contract for its release. A change in their performance could lead to leaks and incontinence.

Going to the toilet too often is referred to as having an overactive bladder, meaning that the detrusor muscles contract too often and this can cause the need for an urgent visit to the loo.

An overactive bladder can be brought on by:

• not drinking enough liquids – strong urine can irritate the bladder walls and bring on an overactive bladder

• urinary tract infections (UTIs)

• constipation – the bladder and the rectum share some nerve endings and, if the rectum becomes slightly enlarged because of constipation, the bladder will have less room to expand and will need to empty more often

• drinking too much caffeine (tea, coffee and fizzy drinks) and alcohol

• neurological conditions e.g. Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis and epilepsy.

- Stress Incontinence

Stress incontinence happens when the pressure inside the bladder is too much for the bladder to handle and the tube through which urine passes (the urethra) isn’t strong enough to stay closed.

Physical exertion can sometimes increase pressure on the abdomen which, in turn, puts pressure on the bladder.

Laughing or sneezing can prove too much for the bladder and small leakages might occur.

The ring of muscle (the urethral sphincter) which keeps the urethra closed may become damaged e.g. through pregnancy or obesity, both of which would place added pressure on the bladder.

Neurological conditions, such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease, can bring on incontinence.

Surgery near the bladder e.g. a hysterectomy (removal of the womb) or prostate gland removal can affect the bladder.

Certain medications can cause stress incontinence.

Lung conditions can also bring on stress incontinence, as the coughing may weaken muscle strength e.g. emphysema and cystic fibrosis.

- Overflow Incontinence

Overflow incontinence is caused by a bladder obstruction or blockage, sometimes making it impossible to empty a full bladder.

Also referred to as chronic urinary retention, this condition can be because the bladder doesn’t empty completely and the consequent build up of urine may lead to frequent leaks. The bladder becomes full but the individual doesn’t feel any need to urinate.

Blockages could be caused by constipation, bladder stones, or an enlarged prostate gland, all placing pressure on the nearby bladder.

The bladder can also become stretched if the detrusor muscles are not fully effective, maybe because of surgery near the bladder.

The individual needs to go to the toilet quite often but finds it difficult to start to urinate and to completely empty the bladder.

Certain medications could also bring on overflow incontinence.

- Mixed Incontinence

Mixed incontinence is a mix of stress and overactive incontinence.

Women with incontinence may have both urge and stress conditions.

Mixed incontinence may also occur in men who have had prostate operations and will also affect older people.

- Functional (sometimes called ‘environmental’) Incontinence

Functional incontinence is when the individual has difficulty getting to the toilet in time

This may affect people who have walking difficulties and also people with mental confusion e.g. dementia. This could be just a small leak, or a full emptying of the bladder.

- Enuresis

Enuresis is the involuntary passing of urine from an adult who can normally control their bladder.

Enuresis can happen during the day (diurnal) or during the night (nocturnal).

As many as one in every one hundred people may be affected by wetting the bed, or wetting oneself during the day. This can occur because of:

• a genetic link to enuresis

• smaller functional bladder capacity (FBC)

• an unstable or overactive bladder (OAB), caused by faulty detrusor muscles.

Illness, medication and dementia can make the individual less aware that they need to urinate.

Visit a Doctor

The individual who begins to experience urinary incontinence should visit their GP, as this condition can affect normal life. The individual may:

• feel a negative impact on their quality of life

• lead to falls, as the individual rushes to the toilet

• bring about a reduction in social activities

• point to some underlying condition and one which could be managed by medical intervention

• point to some more serious health condition, which may benefit from early intervention.

How to Manage Urinary Incontinence

There are certain steps which may prevent urinary incontinence becoming an issue and these include:

• reducing or avoiding alcohol, as well as reducing caffeine, as these can encourage the kidneys to make more urine

• keeping your pelvic floor muscles strong – pregnancy can weaken pelvic floor muscles but everyone will benefit from strengthening these important muscles

• controlling your weight – exercise regularly and eat healthily.

If urinary incontinence isn’t addressed, it can lead to anxiety, depression, loss of interest in sex and sleep loss.

Coping with Urinary Incontinence in Everyday Life

There are several ways to protect oneself and stay dry, with many different types of both washable and disposable incontinence products to choose from. Pads for men and women may differ, with the bottom part of the product being the main point of absorbency for women and the front part being more appropriate for men.

Choosing the right product for you will also depend on your lifestyle:

• are you an active person

• do you spend a lot of time out of the house

• what are your normal day-to-day activities

• what style of clothing do you wear?

- Disposable pads for men

Male pads are designed to be worn inside close-fitting underwear.

With elastic edging, they fit snugly around the penis and scrotum.

Disposable pads are intended for light leakage and for use during the active part of the day. These pads are held in place by an adhesive strip.

More absorbent pads will be more bulky.

Whilst one design or brand may not feel right for you, try other brands before thinking of trying different methods.

- Washable pads for men

Washable pads are useful during the day for mild leakage and for those who might have a small urine loss after urinating.

Washable pads do not have adhesive fasteners and need to be held in place by close-fitting underwear.

Like babies’ nappies, the pads have a hydrophobic layer, which draws urine away from the skin and into the pad.

- Washable incontinence pants for men

Washable incontinence pants look like normal pants but have a built in absorbent layer. They come in Y front, brief and boxer designs.

- Disposable pads for women

Some pads are rectangular and others are designed to give a more personal fit, with elastic edges, forming them into a cupped shape and helping them retain more urine.

- Washable pads for women

Worn inside closely fitting pants, the hydrophobic layer draws urine away from the skin and into the pad.

- Washable incontinence pants for women

Washable incontinence pants for women are comfortable, discrete and durable.

- Disposable pull-on pads and pants for both men and women

Sometimes referred to as disposable underwear, these are a combination of pants and pad.

Pull-on pants are for daytime use and not for use during sleeping hours, as the body in a horizontal position will not make use of the pads designed for daytime, upright, use.

Disposable pull-on pads and pants look like normal underwear and help the user to maintain dignity and discretion.

Comparing Disposable to Washable

Washable products cost more up front but can prove to be more convenient.

Washable products tend to be a little more bulky than disposable products, so may not prove to be as discreet.

Heavy leakage does not do so well with disposable products for people who are out and about but prove to be better suited to use at home.

Incontinence Mattress Protectors

Incontinence mattress protectors are designed to protect your mattress and bed from dampness, odours and stains from urinary and faecal incontinence.

Incontinence mattress protectors can encase the whole mattress, or can be disposable or washable mattress slips which are held in place over the mattress with adhesive strips, keeping them in place over the area most likely to be affected.

Using both an incontinence mattress protector and an incontinence mattress slip will both keep the bed dry and allow you to change the incontinence mattress slip as an when necessary. This will greatly reduce the effort needed during night time changes and will help maintain mattress life.

Disposable and washable incontinence slips can also be used to give protection to seats and wheelchairs.

Summary

When choosing the right incontinence protection for you, you need to consider your lifestyle and what will prove most effective and discreet for you. Remember that larger pads are more noticeable and even in the bathroom reduces the mobility issue using the bath stool.

Decide which style of protection allows you the most independence.

Drying washable products can prove quite expensive.

Teaming an incontinence mattress protector with an incontinence mattress slip will save on time and reduce inconvenience during night time changes.

Source: https://www.essentialaids.com/blog/incontinence-later-life-causes-prevention-coping.html

Making a Wheelchair Yours

 A wheelchair becomes a necessary piece of equipment for several reasons:

• temporary use, whilst rehabilitating from an illness or accident

• temporary use for people whose condition may cause fatigue from time to time e.g. multiple sclerosis (MS), myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), / chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and fibromyalgia

• permanent use for individuals whose mobility is worsening through illness or disability

• permanent use for individuals who have health conditions or disabilities which mean walking is not an option.

People are individuals and so getting the right wheelchair is not a run-of-the-mill purchase. Depending on the individual, their needs, hobbies and aspirations, getting this purchase wrong can detrimentally affect a person’s personal development and future.

Different types of wheelchair include the manual wheelchair, a powered / electric wheelchair, sports models, positioning wheelchair designs which can adjust for lying, sitting or standing, all terrain chairs and standing power wheelchair models.

Once the correct wheelchair has been identified and purchased, this item becomes an ‘extension of one’s own self’ and can be personalised by the user.

Personalising a Wheelchair

A wheelchair can be personalised simply by the colour of its soft furnishings but also by the choice of accessories.

Colour aside, accessories can be for comfort, wheelchair protection (against the elements and against theft and harm), promoting independence in both daily living and lifestyle, making travelling a more straightforward option and supporting hobby choices, to name but a few thoughts that need to be correctly planned for.

Wheel covers come in amazing colours and designs and speak volumes about the user’s personality and character. These fix easily to the wheels via Velcro strips to every spoke, so the personalised cover dropping off the wheelchair isn’t likely to go unnoticed.

Comfort

- Seat pads

Seat pads can make the user more comfortable and help keep irritations such as sores at bay. Once the right size seat pad for the specific wheelchair model has been identified, getting the right material and filling for the individual’s needs is vital:

• a foam cushion allows some flexibility of movement and can promote stability / steadiness

• an air cushion offers adjustable firmness and gives extensive pressure relief

• a gel cushion keeps the user cool and also supports distribution of pressure

• honeycomb cushions are light in weight, keep the user cool and offer moderate pressure relief

• An alternating pressure cushion can help prevent sores by doing just that - alternating pressure.

- Other Padding

Padding can be fitted wherever pressure may cause sores and bruising. Items can include:

• leg huggers – if your wheelchair is fitted with a footplate, a leg hugger pad can be attached to lie behind your lower legs. This pad prevents your legs from falling through the gap but can also protect you from the cold which may reach you from under the wheelchair seat

• shoulder and forearm pads can be attached to the wheelchair to give cushioning to these parts of the body, reducing the likelihood of sores and bruises.

- Harnesses and belts

Harnesses and belts are about giving support to the user’s body and so the right choice will prove personal to the individual:

• a shoulder harness will support against slouching and so give good back support but may prove restrictive to animated people and to certain tasks and hobbies

• a chest harness will protect the chest but promote fuller movement to the whole of the user’s body

• a body harness takes pressure off particular muscles, whilst keeping the full upper body supported

• a pelvic belt can support the pelvic area and support sitting with a straight spine, freeing up your upper body for animated conversation or active sports.

Protection

- Protection against bad weather

Protection against bad weather can be accomplished by covering up with a cosy blanket, mobility scooters covers designed to fit the specific wheelchair and mobility scooter model.

For downpours, snow and even sun, an umbrella holder to support an umbrella or parasol can keep you protected from whatever the day’s weather is offering you whilst out and about.

- Protection against theft

Protection against theft is an important consideration and there are several safeguarding options available to the owner:

• keep a record of the wheelchair model and serial numbers, so that quick identification can be made

• mark your wheelchair with an identifiable sticker

• have an up-to-date photo of your wheelchair available, to prove ownership and to secure its return

• fit a locking device, which will make its removal much more difficult

• electronic tracking devices can allow you to track the location of your wheelchair, via an app on your mobile phone.

- Protect yourself against accident during the dark hours

Purchasing a reflective strip, or displaying one which may be on your wheelchair bag, will make you remain visible when out in darkness.

Independence / Daily Living and Lifestyle

- A Working Surface

A working surface is a must for a wheelchair user. It can be used for:

• eating and drinking – should the height of the restaurant table prove to be incompatible with the height of the wheelchair arms (the wheelchair arms are unable to slide under the table), using one’s wheelchair table will prove a good second option

• the personal wheelchair table can support writing, reading, accessing a tablet or lightweight laptop, enjoying a hobby or interest, or simply keeping the television remote controls at hand.

- Bags and Pouches

Wheelchair bags, pouches and organisers are a must for individuals who spend a lot of time living, working and participating from their wheelchair.

A wheelchair organiser can fit inside the wheelchair seating area and run along the seat depth, allowing the user immediate access to a mobile phone, glasses, money, make-up, keys, medication and any other small items to which the user may wish personal access.

The organiser can also fit to the back of the wheelchair, though the user may then need assistance in accessing its contents.

Wheelchair bags attach to the back of the wheelchair and can be used for carrying light shopping, college files and other specific items needed in daily life.

- Other Accessories

A drinks holder will prove very useful, particularly if you’re trying to multi-function e.g. reading and drinking.

Gloves can be either full-fingered or fingerless, both giving added dexterity and keeping hands free from calluses.

Travelling

For a lightweight manual wheelchair, a carrying case will protect your personal vehicle, by keeping it free from tugs and bumps, as well as spillages. The case will make it easier to slot the wheelchair into allotted space, rather than getting stuck on other strangely shaped objects.

For electric and other non-foldable wheelchairs, a waterproof cover will protect against the elements, spillages and allow the wheelchair to claim some of its own space in the storage area.

Some wheelchair covers have an elastic edge, allowing the cover to be held in place whilst stored.

For users who prefer to operate their wheelchair manually, wheelchair gloves are necessary. Keeping one’s hands free from broken skin and sores is a must for regular users. Leather gloves, or thick padded ones, will reduce the likelihood of bruised and blisters.

Accessories for Hobbies and Other Useful Wheelchair Aids

In today’s technical world, a table mount (rather like a monitor support) will vertically hold and support items of between ½ inch (1 cm) and two inches (5 cm) thick and will promote interests that involve using computers, tablets and books.

Wheelchairs can be fitted with slippers, wheel covers which will stop the outdoor tread on your wheels from staining the carpet, or other flooring in your home or workplace. These come in a variety of colours and can once again personalise your personal mode of transport.

Depending on the individual’s personal health condition, other accessories may be needed, including:

• an oxygen tank holder (carrying case) which attaches to the back of the wheelchair

• for electric / powered wheelchairs, a joystick can give the user excellent control of the vehicle, both with adjusting speed, going forward and reversing and also controlling ease of turning, by the use of only two fingers.

• portable wheelchair ramps made from aluminium alloy are lightweight and so prove excellent for entering buildings by the quickest route, rather than taking the longer one of the allocated ramp into the building.

Summary

Matching a wheelchair to the potential user’s needs and desires is of paramount importance. Getting it wrong will greatly reduce the user’s future development, physically, emotionally and developmentally.

Padding, harnesses and belts all promote comfort and stability, keeping the user ‘fresh’ and ready for the activities and expectations of the day.

Protecting the user from inclement weather means that the wheelchair is also being protected against the cold and damp, keeping it dry and comfortable for the user and protecting it against excessive wear and tear.

Keep all identifying details for your wheelchair at hand, to support swift retrieval.

At home, the wheelchair table, wheelchair bags and pouches help you keep ‘regular’ items at hand, reducing the need to move from one place to another, to access run-of-the-mill gadgets and equipment.

When using a joystick for travelling in your electric / powered wheelchair, always find time to practise its capabilities before going out for the first time. Quick pressure on the joystick will cause jerking and so gentle manoeuvres need to be achieved, before being qualified to drive safely.

Source: https://www.essentialaids.com/blog/making-wheelchair-yours.html

6 Helpful Bathroom Aids for Limited Mobility Patients

To carry high quality to the life of individuals with mobility points, the very first thing you need to begin with is offering them with superior toilet aids. As a result of it’s the riskiest space to make use of for folks having mobility points. 

Following aids will guarantee security and promote consolation in your family members. Tell us that are the aids that may assist the sufferers to make use of the lavatory independently and safely.

1. Non-Slip Mats 

Non-slip mats are among the best methods to subtly rework the lavatory and make it a a lot safer place for on a regular basis use for folks with or with out mobility points. Non-slip mats supply further safety for stopping undesirable falls when you are stepping in/out of the lavatory.

These mats are products of particular rubber materials and assist one to keep up grip and preserve the stability. A waterproof mattress protector doubles up the security stage. Waterproof mattress protector doubles up the grip and the mattresses’ soaking capability. This reduces slipping accidents.

2. Bathtub Boards 

These boards assist you to carry the affected person’s legs into a tub. In addition they help regular bathing. One can place these bathtub boards over the tub. These boards include slats that forestall one from slipping. One simply wants to put it correctly, after which can belief the board for the additional bathing help required.

Moreover, be sure that you purchase a board that matches your bathtub’s measurements. Solely then, are you able to place it completely and depend on it whereas bathing. There are numerous supplies you may think about, together with wooden, molded plastic, coated metallic, or a padded choice. 

3. Bathtub Steps 

Bathtub steps are a fantastic addition if one wants a bit of assist stepping into/outdoors the tub however don’t wish to construct the steps completely within the toilet. The bathtub steps are available in a special vary of sizes. These present the affected person with a serving to hand whereas they wrestle with stability points. Be sure to select the correct measurement, materials, and design, so the step won’t slip whereas in use.

4. Seize Rails 

Seize rails are a typical and most useful addition to any toilet or significantly to the house itself. These rails are helpful and straightforward to repair. Seize rails present the additional help for tough actions like getting out or decreasing your self into the tub. It additionally saves you from accidents like slipping within the toilet.

These rails present help and independence to the sufferers. Seize rails must be purchased in a spread of kinds, supplies, and sizes relying on the affected person’s precise necessities.

5. Bathtub Benches 

A shower bench, also called a switch bench, is a toilet accent that helps the aged to get into the tub. It supplies a protected and secure seat within the bathtub, and you need to use this bench to even get into the tub. Many designs additionally include a built-in deal with for further help.

6. Bathtub Hoists 

These aids differ from bathtub lifts as they elevate the affected person’s physique from above somewhat than lifting it from beneath. These aids are costlier than bathtub lifts. Nonetheless, it may be price it as they elevate one excessive sufficient that they don’t must carry their legs to the bathtub rim. You may set up a shower hoist that fixes to your ground, with an applicable design that also lifts the affected person as much as the suitable and required peak with ease.

Another choice right here is to affix the bathtub hoist to the ceiling. For sufferers with restricted knee mobility or hip points, ceiling fixing is a good choice. Relying on the lavatory house and necessities, you will discover a shower hoist fixing that works finest in your family members.

We hope you discovered this text about several types of toilet aids useful. Earlier than putting in any bathtub support, we suggest you seek the advice of a physician for his or her suggestion, as they know the affected person’s necessities and a state of affairs like nobody. Small settings like putting in a bathroom seat with handles, bathe help bars, and so forth., can cut back many accidents. Moreover, aids like toilet seats with handles are available in numerous varieties. Thus, whereas shopping for the aids, be sure you maintain the lavatory measurements and affected person’s necessities in thoughts.

Source: https://essentialaids.tumblr.com/post/671718302493638656/6-helpful-bathroom-aids-for-limited-mobility

Benefits of Using a Lightweight Wheelchair

Living with limited mobility can be difficult, especially for the elderly. However, advancements in technology have made it a bit easier. How? By making support devices. Equipment such as folding walking sticks, wheelchairs are some of the common mobility equipment. 

And as we know, out of all, wheelchairs are of great use and can be used by people with different disabilities and for different help. However, carrying it with you while traveling often seems tricky. And as a solution to that problem and many more, there is an advancement called lightweight manual wheelchair. This helpful equipment helps mobility challenges to participate in everyday activities, promoting ease and enthusiasm.

 

Who Should Use Lightweight Wheelchairs?

Starting from who should not use it. Lightweight wheelchairs are not at all appropriate for someone:

• Who weighs more than 250 pounds

• Who are full-time wheelchair users

 

Now let us see for whom these chairs are perfect. Lightweight folding chairs are best for older people and for those who have trouble continuously walking long distances. These chairs are also recommended to those who can only use some of their limbs and for people who have a temporary injury.

Elderlies with limited mobility can even carry a lightweight chair for their use while traveling. A lightweight folding wheelchair can give the feeling of independence while maintaining mobility. Also, you can invest in folding walking sticks for the extra support elderly want while getting up from the wheel chair or performing daily activities.

 

Benefits of a Lightweight Wheelchair?

 

Ease of Storage

One of the most significant benefits of the lightweight chair is that it folds up for easy storage in tiny spaces. This makes daily living space more convenient and less congested. 

 

Easy Transportation

Caregivers can easily transport people of all ages with limited mobility to shorter distances. The collapsible frame in this chair portrays that the chair is light, foldable, and portable to carry it in the car. These frames also help while carrying the chair upstairs or downstairs.

 

Promotes Independence

It may sound strange to include this option. But, the trust is that these chairs do promote the independence of the patient. These chairs do not need a caretaker to push or pull the chair until the patient can move their hands. These are light in weight and don't even need to apply a great amount of energy. A little push will be enough.

 

Additionally, the newest models even have optional accessories like lap trays and drink holders. This makes it more convenient for the elderly to adjust their belongings on the chair itself. Every add-on can easily be taken off and packed separately for convenient transport. This durable chair allows users to participate in daily activities easily and independently.

 

Many Convenient Features

Lightweight wheelchairs come with various features. These features make the use of chairs more comfortable and user-friendly. You just need to make sure your hair has all the necessary features as per your requirement and mobility issues.

 

Armrests

Armrests come in either full-length or desk-length sizes. If someone wants to sit at a table or a desk for a full day in this chair, then desk-length armrests are an ideal choice for them. Here the armrest also comes in a fixed or movable setting. Armrests that can flip up and down will be convenient if one wishes to transfer themselves to a toilet or on the bed.

 

Leg Rests

Leg rests can be regular or elevating. Here, the regular size is adequate for someone having only mobility issues and wanting to rest their legs while sitting in a wheelchair. And the elevating type does not come under standard leg rests. They help people having circulation problems or who have some injuries.

 

Cushioning

Comfort is vital in any wheelchair. And the lightweight wheelchair gives its users the ideal comfort. One just needs to ask about extra padding for leg rests and seating. One can even install shock absorbers to the framework to eliminate the risk and enhance your comfort.

 

One of the most beneficial features of lightweight wheelchairs is that one can stay independent. The caretaker can even lift the wheelchair easily into a car, bus, or even a plane. With this versatile folding chair, one can participate in what they love to do.

Source: https://essentialaids.tumblr.com/post/671338532707631104/benefits-of-using-a-lightweight-wheelchair

4 Shower Solutions for Elderly and Disabled

Taking showers is a process to refresh your mind and body. However, the danger of using showers with limited mobility can lead to severe conditions. Shower solutions can provide a safe, convenient, and comfortable alternative to a traditional bathtub. The danger of stepping into a bathtub can be eliminated through shower solutions.

While remodeling the bathroom to accommodate the requirements of the elderly or people with restricted mobility, it is vital to consider their long-term needs. And knowing below shower solutions can help you know what is best for your loved ones.

1. Bed Baths

People who are bed-bound and cannot get out of bed or move much find it difficult to take showers regularly. However, in any situation, maintaining hygiene is very important. Therefore, the bed bath, commonly known as a “sponge bath,” is often the only option for people with restricted mobility. This bath can be taken in the bed itself. Thus, this solution is the best way to clean the disabled’s body without making them walk into the shower. Even the caregiver can help the patient with the bed baths.

There are two types of bed baths:

• Complete bed bath - cleaning the entire body partial bed bath
• Partial bed bath -  cleaning only the face, underarms, hand, leg, and genitals/perineal area.

2. Shower Chairs

This is a versatile solution for people with significant balance or mobility issues. One can use these shower chairs for bathing conveniently. You can use a shower chair to your bathing set up in the below ways:

• Fit them as a pull-down option from the shower wall
• Build them into the tub or shower as part of a bathroom renovation
• Place a shower chair stand on the tub or on the shower floor so that the shower water can fall straight on the person sitting there

There are different chairs available for different mobility issues. Varieties include wall mounted shower seats, foldable shower chairs, rolling shower chairs, etc. 

Additionally, you should also include the space factor before making any decision. For instance, a wall-mounted shower seat with foldable settings would take the least space. While the floor-built shower chair might engage more space since it is non-movable.

3. Wall Mounted Shower Seat

The wall-mounted chairs are made up of a quality stainless steel frame. You can also choose a wall supported seat for a sleek look; another option is choosing a chair with folding legs for extra support. Most wall mounted shower seats are available with a white and thick padded seat to provide a comfortable phenolic slatted top or teak to provide durability.

4. Portable Showers

Portable showers, also known as roll-in showers, barrier-free showers, and portable wheelchair showers. It is useful for people who are unable to use a traditional bathroom. Here, the best part is that you can set up a washing area in any part of the house and include privacy curtains. This is the most comfortable solution for people with wheelchairs or any other mobility issues. There are also portable solar showers available as another option.

5. Walk-In Showers

Walk-in showers have a wide array of options for the disabled and the elderly. You can customize this solution as per your convenience by including your specific needs. You can even convert your existing bathtub and shower combo into a walk-in shower.

If one wants to have any other shower then they will need a caretaker to help them step over a curb or into a tub. But a walk-in shower allows the elderly to do that independently. Let us look at its different benefits:

• Convenient to use for all ages
• Make your bathroom feel spacious
• Easy to clean than standard showers
• Adds a sense of luxury
• Great customization options

Moreover, to know more about what you can add to a walk-in shower, you can set up a meeting with any company specializing in building walk-in showers for people with all types of disabilities. These company representatives will come to your home, measure your space, understand your limitations, and that is it. They will offer you the best solution to solve your bathing problem by adding specifications to your walk-in showers.

Wrapping Up

If your loved one needs any assistance while bathing, then you should buy shower equipment and get them installed in the existing bathroom. You can even add other safety equipment like shower chairs, tub rails, grab rails, commode chairs, bath mattresses, etc. It will level up the safety against slippery floors and save from falling off the balance.

Here, commode chairs also come in various types for you to choose from according to your requirements. And you can fit these equipment in any shower options like a wet room, portable shower custom shower, walk-in shower stall, etc.

Before purchasing any equipment, do not forget to discuss it with a healthcare professional asking for their medical advice.

Source:https://essentialaids.tumblr.com/post/671249743178088448/4-shower-solutions-for-elderly-and-disabled

Taking the Risk out of Personal Hygiene

A bathroom is a more risky place for the elderly than younger people.

Pensioners usually have a less sturdy body than younger people and age also brings with it other conditions and disabilities which make everyday tasks a little more challenging.

Health changes which can affect safety in the bathroom include balance, mobility, dexterity, strength, grip, arthritis (e.g. joint pain), vision, mental health (e.g. Alzheimer’s, dementia and memory loss) and general weakness which may accompany illness.

Risk factors in play in a bathroom can include hot water, spilt water, poor lighting and obstacles.

A little thought needs to go into the current working of a bathroom and the changes which need to be made to make it more ‘elderly friendly’.

A more’ elderly friendly’ bathroom helps the individual retain their self-esteem and confidence. Such peace of mind promotes calm and can therefore reduce accidents.

Balance

A weakened balance system can be as a result of illness or disability and can make straightforward tasks need more thought and planning.

An aid to balance can be no more than a walking stick, giving the individual something to rest on when moving.

A walking frame allows the user to place some weight on the frame, whilst taking small steps forward. The user lifts the frame into a forward position and then steps towards the frame, before moving the frame forward again.

A walking frame with wheels allows the user to push the walker forward and may also have brakes to accommodate stopping and parking up e.g. when used outside and standing to chat for a while, or waiting in a queue at a checkout.

Walkers are height adjustable and it is important to get the height perfect for the user, so as to avoid hunching, or avoid the walker with wheels running away from the user and causing a fall.

Taking steps forward can feel rather nerve-wracking and so grab rails at appropriate points around the bathroom (e.g. entering the bathroom, moving towards the wash hand basin, toilet, or bath / shower) can empower the user to move, stand and function more safely.

Grab rails within a bath or shower give confidence to the person, when entering and leaving the bathroom, as well as supporting standing whilst bathing.

Non-slip bath mats in the bath / shower are a must for us all. Whilst water can cause us to slip, spilt bath gel and shampoo can exacerbate the problem.

Having a non-slip mat outside the bathing area is also a must, as it allows the person with balance difficulties to establish a safe footing when stepping out of the bathing area.

Mobility

A walking frame is equally as useful to a person with mobility issues but other individuals who have more serious difficulties may need to make use of a wheelchair to enter and leave a bathroom.

To allow a wheelchair to access a bathroom, the doorframe may prove too narrow to accommodate entry. For moving around the bathroom, a shower chair with wheels could prove the answer.

- Bath

To safely enter a bath, the individual with mobility issues can make use of a bath board. Fixed to the depth of the bath itself, the user sits on the bath board and then shuffles along with upper arm body strength until he / she is able to lower oneself down into the water. Grab rails fitted to the bath board and to the wall will help with getting in and out of the bath.

A bathroom chair allows the user to feel well supported and removes the need to lower oneself into the bath. The comfort of the bath chair can also be enjoyed for those who use a shower over a bath.

A bath chair comes as a seat but other models can include a seat back for more support and also seat arms to make the user feel safer and more comfortable.

For the user who may have difficulty stepping into the bath, a swivel bath chair will take the worry out of injuring oneself.

- Shower v Wet Room

A shower comes with a shower tray, a small lip (around four inches (4 cm) which needs to be stepped over to get into the shower.

For a wheelchair user, or for the person who will feel more confident and independent in a shower chair (with or without wheels), a wet room is on ground level and so allows the user to either walk in, or ride into, the shower area, without having to address the ‘small lip’ hazard.

- Bath Mats and Shower Mats

To stand in a bath or shower, or to stand up from a sitting bathing position, anti-slip bath mats are a priority. Without a bath mat, water and, more so, water mixed with bathing gel or shampoo, can cause one to lose one’s balance and to fall and maybe injure oneself on the way down.

Choose a bath / shower mat which :

• has a textured surface and so allows the user to be able to steady one’s feet
• is easily cleanable – a toothbrush may come in handy for deep cleaning
• has anti-bacterial qualities, to reduce the build up of mould and mildew.
• has drain holes built into it, to allow it to dry quickly.

Also make sure that the floor mat to step out of the bathing area onto also has an anti-slip underside.

- Floor tiles

Floor tiles come in many finishes. Avoid shiny tiles which will promote slipping.

Stone tiles actually absorb small spillages and are therefore much safer to stand on than the shiny versions.

Dexterity, Strength and Grip

Joint pain, arthritis, certain illnesses and even old age itself can cause a lack of strength and a weakness of grip.

- Turning Taps On and Off

Whilst a traditional tap needs strength and good grip to turn the tap itself, lever taps prove better for people with reduced dexterity. Many other designs of tap are available, including push button taps and infrared / sensor designs.

- Opening and Squeezing Toiletry bottles

Bath gel and shampoo bottles can sometimes need two hands to release the liquids inside and so, for the person who needs to hold onto a grab rail to secure one’s safety, wall-mounted toiletry bottles which need only one hand to release the contents will prove a better option.

- Using the Toilet

A standard toilet tends to be 17 inches (42.5 cms.) in height but, for elderly people who find sitting down and standing back up a little difficult, a toilet of 20 inches (50 cms.) and 21 inches (52.5 cms.) makes using the toilet more comfortable and safer.

Added height can be given to a standard toilet by simply purchasing an extra thick toilet seat, which gives enough extra height to make sitting and standing prove more comfortable tasks.

Some designs of shower seat fit comfortably around a toilet bowl and come with a hole cut out of the centre of the seat, allowing for toileting to be done from there.

Reduced Vision

For a person with changing sight, a bathroom needs to be ergonomically friendly.

Avoid clutter, avoid sharp edges on bathroom units and use colour coding to make items easily recognisable e.g. cream walls, orange towels and brown cupboards.

Make use of directional lighting (e.g. spotlights), to highlight the most important areas in the bathroom e.g. the toilet, wash hand basin and bathing area. Poor lighting casts shadows and can cause unnecessary accidents.

Use warm lighting, rather than bright lighting, in a bathroom, as bright lights and the accompanying glare can add to vision difficulty.

Mental Health

Forgetfulness (Alzheimer’s and dementia) and short-term memory loss can make simple tasks become dangerous e.g. forgetting to switch a tap off, allowing water temperature to become too hot or too cold.

Depending on your needs, consider purchasing sensor taps which can switch off automatically when not in use.

For safety against burning and scalding, fit a thermostatic mixer valve, which can supply the free flow of water at the desired temperature.

General Weakness

Illnesses such as flu and other fevers can weaken the body and blur vision. Having grab rails to hold onto and good lighting can reduce the likelihood of slipping or falling.

Summary

Where there’s water, there’s an element of danger. A wet floor in a bathroom can create problems for all but maybe more so for elderly people.

When purchasing a bath chair, be sure to take the measurements of your bath first, so as to allow you to choose a bath chair model which will fit your personal bath size and design.

Directional spotlights in the bathroom can prevent accidents.

Bright lights and the accompanying glare can irritate eyesight and so reduce vision clarity.

Bath mats, both inside the bathing area and out, are so important to us all, as they prevent slipping and can reduce accidents and injuries.

Keep a tidy bathroom and avoid sharp edges on bathroom units, both of which will add to the positive bathing experience.

Source: https://www.essentialaids.com/blog/taking-risk-out-personal-hygiene.html

Incontinence, Quality of Life and Restful Sleep

Loss of bladder control can come about as a result of diabetes, the menopause, an enlarged prostate, lifestyle and also as a result of other illnesses and certain medications.

Urinary incontinence can cause great embarrassment and also lead to isolation, as the individual affected may find socialising somewhat challenging.

Urinary Incontinence Explained

Urinary incontinence can be classified as stress incontinence, urge incontinence, overflow or total:-

Stress incontinence is when the pressure in the bladder becomes stronger than the strength of the urethra (the doorway to the bladder) to contain the urine content.

Urge incontinence is when the detrusor muscles in the bladder contract too often and create a need to quickly pass urine.

Overflow incontinence can be when the detrusor muscles don’t contract fully and cause the bladder to stretch. This condition is often caused by an obstruction or a blockage, meaning that the bladder cannot completely empty itself and so frequent leaking becomes a possible factor.

Total incontinence means that the bladder cannot contain any urine and the individual passes a lot of urine, or has regular toilet seat riser visits and frequent leaks in between.

Risk factors to incontinence can include regular urinary tract infections (UTIs), age and family history.

How to Reduce Leaks

There are several points that the individual can take into account, to lessen the development of leaking:-

• Smoking can increase incontinence, as regular coughing can loosen the pelvic muscles
• Lifting and carrying can weaken pelvic muscles, so mentally work at tightening the pelvic muscles before lifting weight of any kind
• Fatty tissue from being overweight can put pressure on the bladder
• Efforts taken when constipated can both weaken the pelvic muscles and worsen and urinary infections present. Change both your diet and lifestyle, to reduce the likelihood of constipation
• Caffeine is present in coffee, tea, green tea, fizzy drinks, energy drinks and hot chocolate and can irritate the bladder, making incontinence worse
• Alcohol is a diuretic and so causes you to urinate more often. Cut down on consumption to reduce the effects on the bladder
• Cut down on acidic and spicy foods, as they can worsen incontinence symptoms.

Keeping Dry

Keeping dry means protecting one’s skin and keeping clothes, chairs, beds and bed linen free from dampness, odour, stains and discolouration.

Finding the most comfortable incontinence control during the day helps keep life how it is meant to be.

The most comfortable way of keeping dry during the night will aid restful sleep and make for a more positive day.

Daytime

There are a lot of products available for people who wish to control their bladder upset and get on with quality, daily life:-

- Pads and Pull-Up Pants

Like babies’ nappies, pads and pull-up pants include a hydrophobic layer which, by drawing the liquid away from the top layer of the product, keeps the user’s skin dry. This will contribute to preventing infection and lessening the development of sores.

Pull up pants have a breathable back sheet which supports a flow of air and keeps skin fresher. Easy to use, these pants help the skin remain unbroken from dampness or infection.

Pads and pull up pants come in a range of absorbency levels, from small leaks to more intense incontinence.

- Incontinence Pads

Incontinence pads are more bulky and are used by people with more severe incontinence problems.

An incontinence pad can hold up to two or three times the volume of urine excreted from one full emptied bladder.

One thousand mls. (1 2/3 pints) of urine weighs similar to a bag of sugar. Regular changing is therefore recommended, as a heavy incontinence pad will prove very uncomfortable.

Incontinence pads and pants are in both male and female designs, to allow for a better fit.

Sanitary pads are not recommended as a cheaper option, as they tend to remain wet and can cause sores to the skin.

- Chair Protection

Incontinence chair pads help keep chair seats dry and clean and are easily washable. Always buy several chair pads, so that more than one chair is protected at all times, allowing the person with the bladder upset to move freely from one chair or room to another.

Incontinence chair pads can also be used in the car, to protect the seat from dampness, odour and staining, keeping travelling by car firmly on the list of one’s pleasures.

Night-time

Having to change a wet bed during the night is an experience to be avoided, due to disturbed sleep, cleaning and the time taken for all tasks.

A mattress can be kept dry and hygienic by using:-

• A zipped, waterproof, mattress cover – this covers the whole mattress and can be easily wiped clean and deodorised
• A mattress protector - mattress protectors cover your bed like a fitted sheet and are made from water resistant materials. They protect the mattress from spills, sweat and other allergens.
• A waterproof mattress pad – a waterproof mattress pad does not cover the whole of the mattress but offers protection in a particular area of the bed, from the chest down to the foot of the bed. It is a multi-layered sheet which proves to be highly absorbent. If made of paper, it is disposable and, if made of cotton, it is washable
• Washable incontinence bed pads (also known as reusable bed pads) can be placed either on top of, or under, the mattress protector, to keep the mattress dry from urine spills and other body fluids
• A catheter is a thin tube which, when inserted into the bladder, allows urine to flow freely into a drainage bag which is held at the thigh or calf
• For males, the catheter tube enters the bladder through the penis. For females, the catheter enters the bladder through a small hole made in the tummy.

Catheter Side-Effects

The side-effects of using a catheter include:-

• Headaches
• Chills
• Cloudy urine
• Pain in the genital area
• Blood in the urine
• Foul smelling urine.

Bowel Incontinence

Bowel incontinence is when you find it sometimes difficult to control your bowels. It affects one in five people aged over sixty five and rises for people aged eighty and over.

Bowel incontinence is not a natural part of ageing but older people are more at risk of developing the condition.

Bowel incontinence can present itself as:-

• When you soil yourself without knowing
• When an urgent need to go can’t be held onto
• When passing wind can lead to some spillage.

If the accidents become regular, this will greatly affect quality of life and socialisation. Your first action should be to seek medical attention. This condition can often be treated with medication, though visiting the doctor should always be looked upon as a priority.

Treatment could include:-

• Changing your diet to foods which are less likely to cause diarrhoea or loose stools
• Medicine to reduce diarrhoea and constipation
• Incontinence pads and / or small plugs which can be inserted into your bottom
• Pelvic floor exercises which can help you strengthen muscles which control your bowels.

There are many causes for bowel incontinence, including bleeding piles, constipation and diarrhoea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease (inflammatory bowel syndrome), childbirth (which causes stretching of the muscles) and also conditions which can affect nerve endings e.g. a stroke and diabetes.

For bowel incontinence, pads are preferred over and above pants.

When choosing the most effective bowel incontinence pad, look for pads which:-

• Are friendly to the skin – some people are allergic to latex, so take this into account when purchasing
• Give a high degree of comfort (belted pads or smaller pads)
• Have an absorbency which matches the user’s level of need (normal, plus, super plus and maxi)
• Fit close to the body
• Indicate the level of wetness, so as to know when to change the pad
• Neutralise odour, so that you know that others won’t notice.

Active or Inactive?

An active person may make different choices to an inactive person, as to what is the best bowel incontinence pad to wear.

An active person will be better suited to choosing a shaped pad, as this will accommodate movement and general activity.

An inactive person will find an all in one pad the better choice, as they don’t need changing as often and are easier to remove (e.g. fixation or Velcro pads), even when the user is lying down.

Summary

When choosing the right incontinence pad to purchase, points which must be taken into account include are:-

• Whether the user is male or female
• Whether the incontinence loss is mild, average, or intense
• Whether the absorbency level meets the needs of the user
• Whether the person is active or inactive.

Protecting a bed mattress from incontinence will promote restful sleep.

Washable incontinence bed pads are a must for keeping the mattress dry and hygienic.

By addressing one’s personal lifestyle, leaking can be reduced and quality of life can be brought back up to standard.

Always confirm the cause of incontinence with your doctor, as there may be medication which can greatly help with solving or managing the issue.

Source: https://www.essentialaids.com/blog/incontinence-quality-life-restful-sleep.html