Sleep. One-third of our life should be so simple.
Sleep is healing, restorative and vitally important to every physical and cognitive human function, including health. Without it, the body can’t work, create, execute plans or have meaningful social interactions. There are few moments as gratifying as waking up fully rested and restored to start the day.
If good sleep is so beneficial, then why is it so difficult to come by for many of us – especially as we age?
Many states of disease (or general un-wellness) can be accompanied by sleep difficulties. Add the challenge of having a combination of illnesses, incontinence or dementia issues, and sleep can be even more difficult.
For this article we will focus on the often uncomfortable subject of incontinence, ways to manage it and tips for promoting a better night’s sleep for those in our care.
The facts behind incontinence
Issues with moderate to severe urinary incontinence affect 1 in 3 older adults, can increase with age, and are more common in women. Incontinence impacts work, socialization and self-esteem, and it can lead to depression and isolation.
Incontinence is not a disease in itself, but rather a symptom of some other underlying cause. Also, despite popular belief, moderate to severe loss of bladder or bowel is NOT a normal part of aging; however, it can often be related to another condition that requires more extensive personal care in a long-term care facility.
Steps to help
So, what do you do when an aging loved one begins having issues with incontinence?
Although these conversations are often difficult, it’s crucial to have an open and accepting dialog.
First, make an appointment with their primary care physician or nurse practitioner to rule out underlying medical conditions. A healthcare professional can offer advice, talk about progression and discuss treatment options that may include medication or referral for a bladder/bowel retraining program. Simple interventions at home are also very effective.
Choosing the right products
Next, with your loved one, determine the nature of the issue and what times of day they are most affected. An incontinence product specialist can help you choose the right day and night products to trial until preferred choices are made.
Another awkward topic that may arise is – what do you call these products? “Adult Diaper” is NOT the best choice. We recommend referring to them as “absorbent products,” “disposable briefs” or “protective underwear” to help maintain the wearer’s dignity.
Product needs may change over time, so re-evaluate often. Incontinence episodes can be irritating to delicate skin, leading to skin breakdown and infection. We recommend choosing superabsorbent products that use the latest technology.
Although the cost is often higher, choosing the best product will help minimize leakage and odor, keep delicate skin dry, encourage improved dignity and confidence and enhance sleep.
Seeking uninterrupted sleep
Superabsorbent products have longer wear time, so they need to be changed less often. This, in turn, provides longer periods of uninterrupted sleep at night. And better sleep patterns have been proven to benefit health in many ways.
A quality night of sleep makes loved ones feel:
- More rested
- More engaged in their environment
- More interested in their relationships
Additionally, better sleep has been found to help maintain better overall health and can even reduce the risk of illness and dementia.
To help encourage good sleep patterns and sleep hygiene, allow your loved one to get plenty of sunlight during the day and minimize distractions like TV before bed. Talk with them and their healthcare provider about the best times to take medications or check blood sugar, with the goal of promoting extended nighttime sleep. Reducing lights and noise can also help to reset one’s natural sleep-wake cycle.
Taking the next step
Tranquility has a number of ways to help you determine which incontinence products are right for you:
- Take our online “quiz” (Product Finder)
- Contact the Tranquility Care Center
- Call 1-866-865-6101, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. EST
- Email CustomerService@pbenet.com
Our team is ready to answer questions, provide encouragement and help you find the perfect product for your needs. Tranquility offers nighttime products in a variety of styles to give you peace of mind and a good night’s sleep.
