Certain diseases, such as Huntington’s disease, Pick’s disease, and Lyme disease, can lead to Dementia, which is the loss of brain function.

The most common cause of Dementia is Alzheimer’s, which occurs in almost half of people over the age of 85.

Incontinence is the lack of control defection or the leakage of urine. This condition can become a common problem and is often very distressing for patients, as it can greatly affect the quality of life. Fortunately, unlike dementia, incontinence is usually treatable by fixing an underlying medical condition.

People with Dementia need all the help, love, and support they can receive from their loved ones. If you have a loved with who has Dementia or Incontinence, here are a few ways you can help.

Communication

You’ll find that people with Dementia will often struggle to find answers to questions. The best way to deal with this is by being patient and giving your loved one all the time she or he needs to reply.

It’s fine to suggest answers or words. Pay close attention to your loved one’s body language and nonverbal cues. Think about the meaning and feelings of the words your loved one says.

Avoid asking your loved one complex questions. To get the best results, don’t ask multiple questions at the same time, and try to ask questions your loved one can answer with “Yes” or “No.” If you can’t ask yes/any questions, don’t give him or her too many options.

The best question would be, “Do you want to eat apples?” However, “Do you want to eat apples or strawberries?” is also a manageable question.

Wandering

Many people with Dementia walk around often looking for something or someone, and this walking often seems aimless to those caring for the loved one with Dementia. Other reasons why people with Dementia walk “aimlessly.”
is due to medication effects or to fulfill feelings of thirst, hunger, needing to go to the bathroom, or needing to exercise.

You can deal with wandering by scheduling times for regular exercise. Also, consider adding locks to doors, yet if you choose to do so, consider fire and safety concerns for the entire family.

Incontinence is definitely a challenge to live with, but anyone can get through it with the help of their loved ones.

Get Diagnosed

The best way to help a loved one with incontinence is by helping them eliminate the problem. Often, incontinence can be treated; however, it is often under-reported to doctors. A diagnosis can possibly lead to a road to eliminating the problem of incontinence completely.

Correct Incontinence Products

Incontinence is different for everyone. Some people only have a leak infrequently, while others have absolutely no control over their bladder whatsoever. Ensure that you pick an incontinence product that will allow your loved one to be as comfortable as possible.

Attempt to find briefs that are tailored to your loved one’s size. If your loved one’s problem is only minor, try to find absorbent pads instead.

Loved Ones With Both Dementia & Incontinence

Unfortunately, incontinence often affects those with Dementia, so if you have a loved one with Dementia, you may also have to learn how to deal with incontinence simultaneously.

Avoid making your loved one with both Dementia and Incontinence embarrassed or uncomfortable. Try giving him or her more freedom and independence by having them only wear clothing with Velcro and zippers, so they won’t have a difficult time going to the bathroom.

Attempt to add portable toilet chairs in the rooms that your loved one spends a lot of time in. However, Dementia may prevent your loved one from understanding the purpose of the portable toilet.

As you can see, there are plenty of ways to help you’re loved one with Dementia and/or Incontinence feel more comfortable and independent.

Links to some special skills that can benefit someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia include:

• Communicating with Alzheimer’s clients
• Preventing wandering
• Ensuring healthy and adequate meals
• Participating in exercise
• Engaging in activities
• Monitoring for a safe home environment

Our home caregivers are available to assist with personal care, household services, respite, and/or companion care while bringing exceptional compassion, skills, and knowledge about Alzheimer’s and dementia to our clients.