Incontinence

jciuffo

My mom currently lives in an assisted living community with my dad and struggles with incontinence. She is asked on a regular basis if she has to use the bathroom, always saying no, then will have an accident 5 minutes later. I truly believe she doesn't know she has to go, but I don't know how help her and my dad. We got a pure wick for night which is great, but the day time is a true struggle. She also is very weak and doesn't want to move if she doesn't have to. Any advice would be appreciated.

SusanB-dil

Hi jciuffo - welcome to 'here', but sorry for the reason. I've seen several families on here switch to adult underwear, without making any fuss about it. We switched MIL. Ditch the regular underwear and just use a generic brand like Depends. We get the store-brand and they can still be pulled up and down, but the protection is there as needed. Also, get a waterproof mattress cover.

harshedbuzz

If you are looking to avoid incontinence products for a time, you might have success if someone takes her to the toilet on a 2-hour schedule. It's the same as potty training a toddler— you don't ask because they'll always say they don't have to.

HB

Shaneata

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/236546#Comment_236546

This is how we did it! We were actually able to then figure out a longer schedule, kinda like training my dad's bladder. He goes as he wakes up, which is always the same time every morning then every 4 hours unless he drinks more liquids like I try to get him to do. And yes waterproof mattress cover and under his sheet I have the hospital style pee pads. Just keep at it. My dad was admitted for sever UTI before he came to live with us so I always emphasize the importance of keeping dry, clean and hydrated so he doesn't get another one. That helps. Good luck.