Learn the facts about incontinence to better manage this condition.
Incontinence is generally an embarrassing issue for those who are experiencing it. Preconceptions about the affliction often lead to people believing in some common misconceptions about incontinence.
What Do You Need to Know About Incontinence?
The following are several incontinence myths and the truths to go with them:
Myth: Urinary incontinence is inescapable with age.
Truth: While getting older does boost the risk for incontinence, many older adults are able to maintain normal bladder control, so it should definitely not be referred to as a standard or inevitable part of the aging process.
Myth: Urinary incontinence can’t be remedied in older adults.
Truth: This is not the case in a lot of situations. There are ways that incontinence can be addressed with success.
Myth: Consuming as little water as possible will lower the chance of incontinence.
Truth: Often older adults limit their fluid intake, incorrectly assuming that drinking less will reduce the degree of their incontinence. However, reducing fluids results in more concentrated urine, which irritates the bladder and makes the problem worse. Drinking sufficient fluids helps to maintain a normal bladder capacity and level of functionality.
Myth: Urinary incontinence is rarely a problem for men.
Truth: Men are less likely to talk about the issue with family members or doctors, and so are less likely to be clinically diagnosed with urinary incontinence. However, per NAFC estimates, as many as 20% to 25% of Americans with incontinence are male.
When it comes to urinary incontinence, UTIs, and other sensitive medical issues in seniors, you can count on the professional in-home care team at Home Matters Caregiving to provide the customized care services with dignity and respect that allow for maximum independence, safety, and comfort.
We’re always here with a wide range of services for seniors at home, according to each person’s particular needs – from help with personal care to meals and housekeeping to transportation and companionship, and so much more.
If your older loved one is having difficulties with incontinence, make certain the person is given a correct diagnosis from the physician to make sure there aren’t any underlying problems.
The caregivers at Home Matters Caregiving can help your loved one control the symptoms of incontinence in a compassionate and discreet way. Call us at 800-298-5140 for more information about how our home care services can help. Visit our Locations page as well to see if our services are available where you live.
