Whether aging in place at home or residing in a senior living community, older adults living with incontinence face unique health challenges. The risk of pressure sores, UTIs, and falls are all unfortunately common problems that occur in these individuals. However, seniors can greatly reduce their risk of these challenges, and subsequently, reduce their risk of ending up in the hospital by choosing high-quality incontinence products. Below are two features to look for in an incontinence product.
Fully Breathable Products.
Fully breathable products that allow the skin to breathe will reduce the risk of pressure sores. Without breathability, the person wearing the product may get skin irritations and skin breakdowns. Not only can these skin irritations become very painful, but the worry and ancillary negative effects (such as possible hospital admission, decreased quality of life, time, money, and possible hospital admissions) are staggering.
In addition to wearing a fully breathable product, choosing skincare products and washcloths that protect elderly thinning skin are equally as important. Transparent barrier creams and “no water needed” cleansing creams, for example, can aid in reducing the risk of irritation.
Super Absorbent Products.
Super absorbent products are key in helping incontinent elders sleep through the night. “Restorative sleep”, the term meaning 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep that allows a person to go through the 4-5 sleep cycles, has many proven benefits, including cell regeneration, tissue healing, hormone regulation, and being more alert in the morning.
If an incontinent elder is wearing a product that keeps them dry longer and is made from soft comfortable materials, the likelihood of them staying in bed at night is greater. If they stay in bed, they reduce their risk of falling during the night, whereas others wearing a less absorbent product may wake up in the night, wet and uncomfortable. In turn, that elder gets up out of bed groggy and thus a fall may happen. Falls are a leading contributor to hospital admissions. Choosing high-quality products helps reduce the risk!
Super absorbent products may also reduce the risk of urinary tract infections in elders if they are wearing a high-quality product with a double absorbent core that locks in urine while decreasing bacterial growth. A double absorbent core helps to wick moisture away from the skin quickly, thus keeping incontinent elders dry and comfortable, while also reducing urine odor.
If you or a loved one are challenged with incontinence, it is recommended that you inquire about high-quality products at your local independent pharmacy or home medical supply store. Staff members at these stores will be more well versed in quality products rather than a consumer buying adult briefs or pull-ups in a “big box” store and can help guide consumers to proper size & fit, appropriate absorbency levels, styles, etc. which are all factors in promoting confidence, dignity, and overall well being for incontinent people to enjoy everyday life activities.
Most pharmacies and home medical supply stores will even be able to provide free product samples to try before you buy. Remember to compare overall value versus cost as this is critical to choosing wisely!
About the Author:
This article was submitted by Deanna Vigliotta, National Sales Manager at TZMO USA, Inc. Deanna can be reached by email at Deanna.Vigliotta@tzmousa.com or visit www.seni-usa.com for more information.
For free Seni product samples, please email marketing@tzmousa.com
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