It goes without saying that incontinence can be an embarrassing condition to deal with. The stigma behind the condition frequently contributes to individuals having either a lack of facts or a belief in some common misconceptions about senior incontinence. The following are just a few incontinence myths and the truths to go with them:
Myth: Consuming as little water as possible will lower the chance of incontinence.
Truth: Often older adults restrict their fluid intake in the erroneous perception that drinking less will minimize the extent of their incontinence. In reality, though, taking in less fluids causes more concentrated urine, which can irritate the bladder and exacerbate the problem. Drinking plenty of fluids helps to maintain a normal bladder capacity and functionality.
Myth: Urinary incontinence can’t be treated in older adults.
Truth: This is not the case in a number of situations. There are many remedies to effectively manage incontinence.
Myth: Urinary incontinence is inescapable as we age.
Truth: Although this is one of the most common misconceptions about senior incontinence, even though aging does heighten the risk for incontinence, many aging adults still maintain normal bladder control, so it’s not a condition that is necessarily inevitable for older adults.
Myth: Urinary incontinence is hardly ever a problem for men.
Truth: Men are less inclined to discuss the concern with family members or physicians, and so are less likely to be clinically diagnosed with urinary incontinence. However, per NAFC estimates, as many as 20% to 25% of Americans with incontinence are men.
When it comes to urinary incontinence, UTIs, and other sensitive medical conditions in aging adults, you can rely on the expert in-home care team at Heaven at Home to establish and execute effective plans of care with dignity and respect that allow for the utmost independence, safety, and comfort. We offer a wide variety of services for adults who choose to age at home, fitted to each person’s unique needs – from help with personal care, to meals and housekeeping, to transportation and companionship, and so much more.
If your older loved one is troubled with incontinence, make certain the person is given a correct diagnosis from the doctor to make sure there aren’t any hidden issues. The caregivers at Heaven at Home can help your loved one control the effects of incontinence in a compassionate and discreet way. Contact us online or call us at 940-380-0500 for more information about how our home health services in Denton, TX and the nearby areas can help.