When incontinence is an issue, it's important to choose products that meet two goals: absorbency and self-confidence. Which are "the best" incontinence products is a very individual question, and fortunately there are now dozens of choices available. The range of adult incontinence products has evolved to include various styles that cater to differing comfort and protection needs. Many products are designed specifically for men or women and are available in various absorbencies for day and night use.
In general, the two primary categories are products that work with traditional underwear and products that replace traditional underwear. Within those two categories are many choices for a variety of situations, like whether the individual is able to take care of their own needs or relies on a caregiver, and the severity of the incontinence, with dictates how much absorbency the product needs to have.
- Belted shields or undergarments provide absorbency with less bulk than a full incontinence undergarment; an absorbent pad is attached to a belt or straps that secure it in place. The user has the option of wearing traditional underwear over it or to layer it with incontinence underwear for added protection.
- Pads, guards and liners are all inserts that secure to your own underwear with adhesive strips and give you protection with even less bulk and without the need for straps. Each brand?s description will detail the degree of incontinence it works best for, from light or heavy.
- disposable styles that pull on and off
- disposable styles with side tab fasteners
- reusable undergarments or panties
Some of the washable and reusable styles can be worn over a disposable product to add another layer of protection.
"Booster" pads, guards and liners extend the capacity of incontinence undergarments. Some are made to increase the protection of disposables while others are specifically designed for use with reusable undergarments.
Size: Some brands may offer just two sizes, with wide ranges in weight. Others brands are more precisely tailored with up to 5 weight ranges and waist and/or hip measurements for a better fit.
Absorbency/capacity: Carefully read the descriptions on products to know how much liquid and/or waste can be accommodated. Some brands will give guidelines like light, medium or heavy incontinence; others will list specific fluid ounces. "Overnight" choices usually offer the greatest absorbency.
Gender design: While unisex options will be less expensive, more brands are offering styles specifically designed to match the anatomy of men and women; they offer a better fit as well as more protection in certain key areas.
Design contours: Snug-fitting leg cuffs and waistbands are important considerations, especially for the active person who wants to feel secure on the go.
Odor control: This is another design feature that adds to the wearer's comfort level.
Wetness indicator: This additional feature is important for caregivers, to know when a change is needed, but may be desirable to alert the individual wearer, too.
Adjustable tabs: This feature makes changing the product easier for a caregiver. Some people who are self-reliant might feel they get a snugger fit with a product with tabs.
Rip away sides: This makes it easier to remove the product after use instead of having to pull it down and step out of it.
Breathable cloth feel: Many incontinence products are made to feel more like regular underwear, both for comfort and discretion (no loud crinkly noises). This is important to preserve a person's dignity and minimize embarrassment. A cotton-like top layer is a feature of some disposables; overall cotton-like material is a feature of some reusable undergarments, too.
Top layer that wicks away moisture: Another comfort factor, these fibers may minimize chaffing.
Protecting skin from chafing and irritation is an important part of incontinence care. Skin care products include spray, foam and gel cleansers that don't require rinsing and moisture or barrier cream to protect or heal skin. Disposable washcloths and wipes are handy for on-the-go cleaning as well as a more complete cleaning instead of regular toilet paper and often feature moisturizer to treat users' delicate skin.
Bedding solutions. In addition to protecting bedding with mattress covers and waterproof sheeting, underpads are designed in different sizes and absorbencies to protect mattresses as well as chairs and sofas. These pads are available as disposable or reusable choices. Moisture sensing alarms are convenient to allow caregivers to know when bedding needs to be changed.
All rights reserved.
