If you are a new caregiver to a patient with incontinence or your family member just recently developed bladder and bowel problems, you’ll want to consider keeping supplies at the ready to help you address this condition.

In many cases, your family member or patient won’t be entirely comfortable with their situation and may attempt to thwart help or assistance. If that engagement leads to leaks or uncomfortable situations, it’s your job to be prepared and help them clean up in a dignified way.

We recommend having the following supplies ready or knowing where to get them easily if you care for someone with incontinence:

• Rug pads: Individuals with nocturia or overactive bladder are very susceptible to falling from incontinence in an effort to get to the restroom quickly. Make sure the rugs in the house and bathroom are padded underneath to avoid slippage.

• Absorbent products: Many times, leakage or bladder spasms occur when the individual is in transfer, or is moving from place to place. Be at the ready to respond to these needs with an appropriate product.

• Water: Dehydration can be a catalyst for frequent urination and in some cases, urinary tract infections. Avoid your patient or family member experiencing either by encouraging and modeling enough water intake. Click here for guides on how to drink more water.

• Protective Bedding: Waterproof mattress covers, bed pads, and extra sheets can all make a huge difference when cleaning up a wet bed.

• Bladder or Bowel Diary: Managing physical and dietary responses to bladder and bowel concerns is a proven way to help manage incontinence. Help your loved one or patient track their urination, bowel movements, and intake of food and water by keeping the diaries available and ready for updates. Download the diaries here.

We hope these tips can help you be the best assistant in their journey. Are there any tools you’ve already found helpful to have?