Dealing with urinary incontinence and denial is really common with Alzheimer's, and it can be exhausting. The denial often happens because the brain no longer registers the sensation of a full bladder or even that an accident has occurred. It's not stubbornness — it's the condition at work.
For managing leaks beyond Depends Show Full Answer
Dealing with urinary incontinence and denial is really common with Alzheimer's, and it can be exhausting. The denial often happens because the brain no longer registers the sensation of a full bladder or even that an accident has occurred. It's not stubbornness — it's the condition at work.
For managing leaks beyond Depends, here are some options worth trying:
- Double up — A myALZteam member shared that she puts two pairs of absorbent underwear on her husband each morning. When the inner one is soaked, she tears it off and a clean dry one is already in place.
- Incontinence pads — Adding a booster pad inside the Depends can significantly increase absorbency for heavy wetters.
- Timed bathroom trips — Taking him to the toilet every hour or two can reduce how much ends up in the underwear. A myALZteam member found this really helpful with their mom.
- Limit fluids before bedtime — This can reduce nighttime accidents specifically.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol — Both can increase urgency and output. Also, make sure to check him regularly even when he's wearing protection. Staying in wet underwear too long can cause painful skin irritation. A gentle cleanse, pat dry, and zinc oxide barrier cream can help protect his skin.
It's also worth mentioning the soaking issue to his doctor, as they may have additional product recommendations or solutions tailored to his specific situation.
October 14
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