According to research, more than 50% of elderly Americans suffer from incontinence, whether it be bladder or bowel related. Incontinence is not only a physical medical condition; it can also affect people mentally, emotionally, and financially. The cost of incontinence products for elderly adults can add up, and you could be caught off guard if you aren’t prepared.
We have compiled a list of what we think are the ten most useful incontinence products for elderly adults. Consider some or all of these incontinence supplies for seniors the next time you shop for yourself or a loved one to keep ample inventory levels on hand.
1. Briefs/Diapers
Because briefs or diapers can be changed without removing all clothing articles, they are a preferred choice by many seniors. Briefs are for those needing a more secure and absorbent option and are sometimes referred to as adult diapers. These one-piece incontinence garments feature re-fastenable tabs that make readjustment easy for a tight fit. Incontinence briefs also come in daytime or nighttime absorbencies, depending on what level is needed. The Attends Premier Brief is an excellent incontinence product for seniors that offers both daytime and overnight protection.
2. Protective Underwear or Pull-Ups
Protective briefs or pull-ups are one-piece garments made to be easily pulled on and off. They are excellent incontinence supplies for seniors that are looking for more traditional and discreet protection. Offered in absorbencies for day and night protection, protective underwear for seniors also provides odor control and moisture-wicking to remain comfortable and dry.
3. Underpads/Bed Pads/Chux
Available in various colors, materials, designs, and absorbency levels, underpads, bed pads, or chux, provide the extra protection needed to absorb leakage, reduce odors, and control bacteria. Instead of doubling up on protective underwear and mattress covers, underpads are incontinence supplies for seniors that can deliver the required absorbency independently. Underpads can also be used to protect furniture, car seats, and even as pet potty training pads.
4. Liners/Pads
Liners, panty liners, or pads are placed inside regular underwear with their adhesive strip and are used for light to moderate urinary incontinence. Liners and pads are economical incontinence products for elderly adults that do not have heavy leakage. On the other hand, booster pads are added to a disposable brief for an added layer of protection for those with moderate to heavy incontinence.
5. Fecal Pads
Fecal incontinence pads or bowel incontinence pads are designed for those who suffer from Accidental Bowel Leakage (ABL) and are looking for a bowel leakage product that absorbs fluids and odors while being discreet. Many people are unaware of such a product and resort to using a regular bladder pad for bowel incontinence protection. Those with fecal incontinence require a disposable bowel leakage product, as the use of washable products is not an option. Fecal or bowel incontinence pads such as the McKesson Pad are an excellent option that provides maximum moisture barrier. These pads feature sealed edges to prevent leaking and superior absorption.
6. Mattress Cover
Mattress covers are another incontinence supplies for seniors that protects the mattress from incontinence leaks, accidental spills, and unwanted stains. Mattress covers, such as the Salk Prima Vinyl Mattress Cover, fit just like a fitted bed sheet, covering the entire mattress and protecting against bacteria and some allergens. Mattress protectors may also defend against bacteria and some allergens. Because mattress covers are made of water-resistant materials, they extend the mattress’s life. This handy feature can also protect your health. Bacteria breeds when fluids enter the mattress’s core, and dust mites thrive in these warm, damp environments. For many reasons, investing in a quality mattress cover as one of the top incontinence products for elderly adults can be beneficial.
7. Skin Care
The entire area of the body covered by an incontinence product is at risk for skin irritation. If the skin has become wet or chaffed, the incontinence product either incorrectly fits the wearer or is not the right absorbency. With effective skin moisturizers, creams, and ointments, sensitive perineal skin can stay healthy and clean.
8. Personal Care Wipes & Washcloths
With all the personal hygiene products available, personal care wipes are the most convenient when it comes to incontinence products for elderly adults. Using personal care wipes is not only a quicker and easier option than paper towels or cloths; they are also the most versatile cleaning product around. Wipes are compact enough for travel and an inexpensive way to keep yourself and the surfaces around you clean throughout the day. When there isn’t a water source available, using personal care wipes can be used to quickly remove dirt and germs from the hands and face as well as a toilet paper alternative. Personal care wipes are an excellent choice to clean the body’s crevices in between changes of protective underwear for seniors.
9. Penis Clamp
As men age, they may experience difficulty controlling their urinary leakage when lifting, coughing, or straining. They may also have leakage or dribbling of urine due to other urinary problems such as prostate cancer. A penis clamp is an incontinence product for seniors that puts light pressure on the urethra and helps control urine leaking. They are a cost-effective way to help manage stress incontinence in men and worth having around for convenience and travel.
10. Adult Swim Brief
In the summer months, enjoying the pool can be difficult for those that suffer from incontinence. With adult swim briefs such as the Swimmates Adult Reusable Diapers, pool-time can be worry-free. These snug-fitting, stretchy, and lightweight incontinence briefs are made specifically to fit underneath a swimsuit. Adult swim briefs are also machine washable and reusable, so they are budget-friendly when choosing these kinds of incontinence products for elderly adults.
Stocking up on essential incontinence products for elderly adults is important when managing an incontinence condition. Not being prepared with the necessary incontinence supplies when you need them most can be frustrating. You can rest easy with a little preparation, knowing that you don’t need to run out in an emergency to get the incontinence supplies for seniors you need.
For any questions about incontinence protective underwear for seniors, absorbent underpads, adult diapers, briefs, or any other incontinence supplies for seniors we carry, our Personally Delivered Product Experts are just a phone call away and ready to assist. Being prepared never felt so good!
Popular Incontinence Products
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
