Top 5 Tips for Caregivers

Incontinence can be uncomfortable for patients. It can also be a significant stressor for the caregiver trying their best to prevent accidents and clean up after their loved one.

Tip #1: Talk to their doctor

A common myth is that incontinence is a normal part of aging. It is in fact often caused by common and treatable medical conditions. If you notice ongoing signs of incontinence, take your loved one to the doctor for a thorough examination. This will help figure out how to move forward with the results, whether it is a UTI or other condition. Being presented with the results of incontinence will help to decide how to move forward. These proactive actions will help your loved ones take steps to a more fulfilling life.

Tip #2: Stick to a bathroom schedule

A regular daily routine is very important for older adults, especially those with Alzheimer’s or dementia. It’s also a good way to get their bodily functions accustomed to regular intervals. 

To introduce this routine, you can start by asking your loved one to try going every 1 or 2 hours. Experiment around hour intervals to find out what works best for their bodies. Make sure once you have developed what works for them that you stick to it to ensure consistency. Soon, their body will get used to the schedule, reducing the chances of an accident.

Tip #3: Waterproof their surroundings

Cleaning up is a common issue in incontinence care. Accidents can leave odours on your loved ones’ clothing and furniture. Clothes and bedding can be thrown in the washing machine, but it is stressful to clean something that’s not easily cleanable, such as furniture including mattresses or chairs. To be proactive and make cleanup easier, waterproof the furniture that they use throughout the day.

Waterproofing their beds, sofas, and chairs is easy with incontinence underpads. Underpads for bed or chair protection are designed to cover mattresses in order to help absorb leakage, help reduce odors and help maintain dryness.

Absorbs up to one quart of liquid to protect bedding and surfaces. Large 7.5 sq ft coverage provides generous protection area. Extra-strong cloth-like backsheet resists tearing during movement. Suitable for “airing” individuals to promote skin health. Latex-free for safe use with sensitive skin.

Medline Ultrasorb Advanced+ 300 Underpads Ultrasorbs AP® help manage moisture and help maintain skin integrity over time Extra-large pad draws in moisture, locks it away from the skin and feels dry to the touch in just minutes AquaShield film provides leakage protection Lies flat when wet without bunching, swelling or disintegrating Air-permeable for added patient comfort Effective for use with low air loss mattress therapy; protects the bedding and permits air flow

For an added layer of protection, you may consider using diaper covers  as well. They are reusable outer shells designed to be worn over incontinence briefs or cloth diapers. Typically made from waterproof yet breathable materials like PUL or vinyl, they help contain moisture and prevent leaks onto clothing or bedding.

	NorthShore TRIFECA Waterproof Diaper Covers Washable and reusable for long-term cost savings Soft, stretch leg and waist elastics for leak prevention and comfort Waterproof yet breathable PUL fabric keeps moisture in while allowing airflow Latex-free and hypoallergenic
	Designed to fit over existing incontinence products Waterproof vinyl prevents leaks from reaching clothing or bedding Quiet and smooth material minimizes noise and discomfort Reusable and quick to wipe or rinse clean Free from latex—gentle on sensitive skin

Tip #4: Make an “Incontinence Kit” 

Fill a travel bag with clean-up essentials so your loved one doesn’t feel uncomfortable to leave the home. In the kit, you can include extra incontinence briefs or pads, cleansing wipes, odour cleansers, and a change of clothes and socks. By having a bag on hand, they will feel comfortable traveling as they will be prepared for anything that comes their way.

	Prevail Breezers Absorbency Briefs Omni-Odor Guard™ neutralizes odours before they start Soft, cloth-like material enhances comfort 4 hook and loop style tabs Wetness indicator Cloth-backed design Latex-free and hypoallergenic
	Coloplast Sproam Antiseptic No-Rinse All Body Cleanser No-rinse formula for easy, waterless hygiene Dye and fragrance free Soft foam or spray application adapts to patient needs pH-balanced
	TENA UltraFlush Washcloths Certified flushable by NSF and safe for sewer and septic systems Over 99% biodegradable to support environmentally responsible disposal Supports independence and dignity in toileting routines Soft, adult-sized design ensures effective and comfortable cleansing Latex-free, hypoallergenic, and scent-free for sensitive skin

To learn more about incontinence kits, check out our previous article on the topic here.

Tip #5: Encourage a healthy diet

Maintaining a healthy diet is essential for managing incontinence symptoms. Certain foods and beverages can irritate the bladder or worsen symptoms, while others can support overall bladder and bowel health. Below are some items that should be limited or avoided:

• Caffeinated drinks (e.g., coffee, tea, energy drinks)
• Alcohol
• Acidic foods (such as citrus fruits and tomato-based products)
• Carbonated beverages
• Spicy foods

While limiting these triggers is important, incorporating beneficial foods and habits into their diet is equally crucial. Consider these supportive dietary additions:

• Stay hydrated in moderation – Avoid dehydration, as concentrated urine can irritate the bladder.
• Eat fiber-rich foods – Supports regular bowel movements and helps prevent constipation, which can worsen incontinence.
• Consume adequate protein – Helps maintain muscle mass that supports the pelvic floor and bladder control.
• Opt for smaller, more frequent meals – Reduces pressure on the bladder, especially after eating.

If meeting these dietary goals is challenging, Healthwick offers a variety of nutritional supplements and aids to help support your individual needs.

	FiberCel FiberCel® is a tasteless, instantly dissolving fibre supplement that delivers 5g of soluble fibre per serving without bloating or cramping. Free from potassium and phosphorous, it’s ideal for renal diets and safe for use with enteral nutrition.
	Beneprotein BENEPROTEIN® powder contains 6 grams of high-quality whey protein in every scoop or single serve packet. This powder mixes into a wide variety of hot and/or cold foods and beverages.

We understand it can be difficult to remain patient with your loved one as some accidents can take up valuable time to care for. However, if you are prepared with the right physical and social tools, you will have a much easier time, as will they.

Take Care!