For people affected by incontinence, emptying the bladder completely during a toilet visit has many benefits. Doing this effectively reduces the chances of bacteria thriving in remaining urine and causing urinary and skin infections – and from a care perspective, it means your loved one is more comfortable and the practical burden on you can be reduced. However, if this person suffers from dementia and incontinence, this can create new challenges. Here are our top four tips to more effective bladder emptying in these circumstances.
- Take time - don’t rush it and make sure it’s peaceful and quiet. Help your loved one find a good sitting posture by supporting the feet and enabling them to lean forward. You can also help them move position a couple of times.
- Use a pillow - in case of frailness or thinness, use a soft pillow-ring to make the toilet seat comfortable.
- Show how it’s done – it could be that the dementia sufferer simply doesn’t know what you want them to do. In this case, show them how to sit on the toilet.
- Apps can help – mobile phone apps that replicate the sound of running water are available. These can be used to facilitate voiding.
It’s important to understand the special needs of the person with dementia, apply our tips every day and help them void more effectively. We hope this information makes a positive difference to the life of your loved one as well as for you as a care giver.
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