Dealing with Incontinence and Dementia

Incontinence isn’t the first think we think of when we talk about dementia but it’s more common than you might think. For some people, the neurological messages between the brain and bladder or bowel don’t work properly which can mean they don’t recognise their bladder is full, or they don’t have enough control to get to the toilet.

How you can help someone with incontinence and dementia:

Help the person identify where the toilet is such as using a sign or picture on the bathroom door
Let them know that the toilet is free by leaving the door open so they can see it’s not in use
Make it easy for the person to make their way to and use the toilet. Think about lighting, handrails and a raised toilet seat may help
Choose clothing with easy fastenings, elasticated waists instead of zips and Velcro fastenings instead of buttons
Try pull-up incontinence pants that feel like underwear but are designed to be disposed of after an accident

Adrienne used MoliCare® for her husband, Jeff when he was diagnosed with dementia.

“Jeff’s problem was not remembering quickly enough that he needs to go to the toilet during the day and having frequent accidents during the night. We tried to manage it ourselves to begin with by looking out for signs he needed the toilet and setting the alarm during the night to take him to the toilet. However, this became increasingly challenging especially at night as he was frequently soiling the bed.”

Adrienne tired MoliCare® pull-up pants after trying different pads and pants from the supermarket which didn’t really manage the urine.

“The MoliCare® pull-up pants were much better for Jeff as they look like normal underwear, so he doesn’t get upset wearing them. He can pull them up and down like normal pants, which helps him maintain his dignity.”

MoliCare® Premium Mobile pull-up pants are ideal for older adults with cognitive disorders and those with limited dexterity and mobility but want to remain independent. The benefit to these pants is the ability to go to the toilet as normal, popping the pants up and down as needed, whilst still having all the protection of an absorbent incontinence product for those unforeseen moments.

If you’re looking for incontinence products that can help to maintain independence while still providing protection, try MoliCare® by calling us on 01423 331 000 or email us at [email protected] and make MoliCare® part of your daily routine.