The task of choosing the correct bladder control products can be a rather scary task. Between all the different types of products, sizes, absorbency levels and brands, it is understandable that this mission can easily become overwhelming. Not to mention the costs. The price of diapers, odor eliminators and sanitary wipes can add up at the end of each month - much more than infant diapers. Learn how you can get the best and most affordable selection of adult diapers for improved tranquility and comfort.
Costs of Incontinence Supplies: How to Get Free or Low-Cost Disposable Adult Diapers
At least 45% of us will experience incontinence at an older age - this can be either involuntary urine or fecal incontinence.
Studies show this is most common in aging women, given that life has gifted them with pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause. One of the best ways to safely deal with this is to wear the correct premium adult diapers. However, leak and odor control are top concerns while managing urinary and bowel incontinence. When researching adult diapers, maximum absorbency is a must.
If you are an adult dealing with urinary or fecal incontinence, you may already know the cost of daily adult diapers, but did you ever think about absorbency pads, pull-up underwear, absorbent creams, and napkins?
Types of Supplies
Since the human body was not made to be wet most of the time, comfortable absorbency pads, pull-up panties or briefs, sanitary napkins, bladder control pads and absorbent creams to avoid rashes are a few of some extra supplies. And all these essentials can add up to a significant amount at the end of each month. Experts estimate that the average cost of these essentials can add up to as much as $4,000 per year. That is right, an extra $330/mo. can be added to your monthly budget for absorbent and skincare products. For most people that is a big addition to their daily living expenses. Please note that the costs mentioned are estimates and may vary based on one’s location and health insurance.
Where to get help in Paying for Incontinence Supplies?
Many seniors in need of supplies fear they may not have peace and tranquility in their golden years, having to worrying about these extra expenses. But there is good news. Many resources are available to assist the elderly in managing the cost of these essentials. They provide valuable guidance in finding help that is available to pay for these products; whether local or online.
Reach out to Federal Agencies
As a former licensed clinical social worker, and nationally recognized and award-winning gerontologist, our Customer Care Manager, Helen Frank, says that a senior’s first telephone call should be to their local Agency on Aging. The role of this Federal Agency is to promote wellness and facilitate long-term care in the community by providing services that will help aging adults stay safe, protected, and comfortable in their own homes. They provide a wealth of services funded by the Older Americans Act and include a selection of problem-solving services such as care management, in-home supportive services and the provision of care supplies, home-delivered meals, and transportation.
Explore Medicare and Medicaid Options
Seniors can access a care manager, who will work with them to guarantee that they are taking advantage of every financial resource and service available to them. This includes an explanation of opportunities and differences in Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans' benefits, loyalty and rewards programs, and local and non-profit assistance. This can feel like a well-kept secret, and not easily accessible to many seniors. The easiest way to get answers is to call 1-800-677-1116 or visit the website eldercare.acl.gov to find your local agency.
Medicaid users, people with supplementary health insurance and VA benefits recipients should check their eligibility for financial aid when it comes to incontinence supplies. Medicaid may also help community-based services provide help to people who might otherwise be in a long-term care facility. You can also check diaper banks that provide diapers and other supplies to people with limited incomes. In many cases, adult diapers are free or at a very low cost.
Get Help from Local Departments
Incontinence pull-on panties, tape-on briefs, sanitary pads, booster pads and bladder control pads are a few of these safety items that may be reimbursable or provided directly as a caregiver service.
Users of incontinence supplies that have disabilities may also find valuable help through their local Department of Disabilities, which, like the Area Agencies on Aging, provides help and resources to assist men and women with disabilities to live well and independently. These agencies will also have access to other streams of help, such as non-profit organizations and businesses, that cannot be accessed any other way than through them.
Seek Support from Chronic Illness Organizations
People suffering from chronic illnesses and cognitive diseases can also receive help and guidance by contacting local organizations dedicated to their condition, such as the Alzheimer's Association, the ALS Association, the American Parkinson's Disease Association and the American Cancer Society.
Group Purchasing
Geriatrics users living in communities also have realized the value of purchasing online products in bulk as a group, rather than individually. A lower-cost option would be to get together with other residents to determine which offered products can be purchased in larger quantities for further discounts. It has been proved that online sales in bulk can reduce the price by as much as 80% if compared with local pharmacies or grocery stores.
In Conclusion
The key to receiving support in the selection and purchase of effective incontinence supplies is to reach out to as many resources and online sites and be persistent in requesting.
Sarah Johnson
Aging in Place ExpertSarah Johnson is an Aging in Place Expert with extensive experience helping seniors remain independent and comfortable in their homes. She has specialized knowledge of how to help elderly individuals stay healthy, safe, and happy as they age. Sarah is passionate about providing quality care for aging adults, allowing them to remain in their homes and enjoy the highest quality of life.