Tips for Living with Incontinence
Adult incontinence is a very common problem. In fact, if you put all the people on earth with incontinence together, they would be the world’s third-largest country, surpassed only by India and China.
But it’s hard to know exactly how many people struggle with incontinence, because many people don’t tell others about their symptoms. Instead, many suffer in silence due to embarrassment.
Incontinence can have a profound impact on one’s emotional wellbeing and social life. Many people cut back on their normal daily activities for fear of not having easy access to a toilet. But there are several things you can do to make the situation better. Here are a few of our favorite tips for living with incontinence:
- Find Someone to Talk To: Keeping your struggle to yourself, or even denying it is a problem at all, can compound internal feelings of sadness or depression. Finding someone you can confide in – a doctor, a counselor, or a trusted friend – will help lift the weight from your shoulders and empower you to take charge of the situation.
- Be Prepared: Carrying the supplies you need with you can give you the confidence to know that whatever happens during the day, you can handle it. Bring extra pads or underwear with you, and be open with friends and family about your need to use the bathroom frequently. This lets people know what to expect and removes any potential awkwardness or misunderstandings.
- Use The Right Products: Seek the advice of a doctor or occupational therapist in finding the incontinence products that are right for you. There are many different options meant for different situations, and you will feel better when you are confident you have the right tools for the job. Even when it comes to incontinence underwear, there are several different options in shape, size, and material. Find a knowledgeable person who can help you navigate.
- Keep It Clean: To minimize incontinence rash symptoms, it is important to frequently and gently cleanse the irritated areas using mild, fragrance-free soap, and warm water. Rinse well, pat dry with a clean towel, and apply a layer of Balmex AdultAdvantage for continued protection and healing. Keep clothing, absorbent undergarments, and bedding as clean as possible, especially any fabrics that come into contact with sensitive, irritated skin.
By following these tips for living with incontinence, you will be better prepared to take control of the situation, and take back control of your life.
