How To Choose The Right Products For Adult Incontinence

Wearing something that doesn’t fit never offers you a good feeling. This is especially true for incontinence products such as adult diapers and pads.

Not only is it inconvenient to realize that your incontinence product is too big or too small, but wearing the improper size may result in leaks or chafing of the skin, which can lead to skin abrasion or odor difficulties, as well as an impact on your dignity.

Therefore, it becomes necessary for you to choose the right incontinence products.

But, with so many different types of incontinence solutions available, it might be challenging to choose one.

As a result, we’ve put together a guide with five simple steps for selecting the best incontinence product.

1. Understand Incontinence Types

Before choosing the right incontinence products, such as adult briefs or diapers, it is crucial to identify the kind of incontinence you are dealing with. This will help you filter out various options, and you will be assured of receiving a solution that best fits your incontinence needs.

Different types of incontinence are:

Stress Incontinence: A type of incontinence that occurs when pressure on the bladder is exerted, and this leads to actual leakage, for instance, when exercising, coughing, or laughing.
Urge Incontinence: Described as a strong urge to urinate suddenly combined with an inability to control the urine outflow.
Overflow Incontinence: Occurs when the bladder is not drained to its optimum level and then dribbles.
Functional Incontinence: Relatively connected to physical or mental disorders in which a person cannot get to the bathroom on time.
Mixed Incontinence: A mix of two or more types, usually involving stress and urge incontinence.

Knowing the type of incontinence being experienced will enable one to choose the right absorbency level and style of protection.

2. Check Absorbency Level

The degree of absorbency of incontinence products is one of the most important considerations when selecting the right product.

That said, different levels of incontinence will require different levels of absorbency. For example, some individuals may require incontinence products that offer little protection, while others may require highly absorbent ones meant for better leakage control.

To get a better picture, let’s understand the various absorbency levels of incontinence products:

Light Absorbency: Ideal for those who occasionally experience leakage caused by stress incontinence. In these instances, light incontinence pads may be enough.
Moderate Absorbency: In case of more frequent leakage, it may be necessary to use a heavier pad.
Maximum/Heavy Absorbency: Required especially for severe or nighttime incontinence. Wearing an adult diaper with high absorbency will make you feel more protected and secure.

3. Knowing the Product Type

Incontinence products come in various categories due to the varying needs and preferences of the users.

Common styles include:

Pads and Liners: Recommended for use in case of light to moderate leakage. These are worn inside underwear, are discreet, and offer high protection.
Protective Underwear: These are pull-on style products designed to look similar to normal underwear. They are ideal for moderate to severe incontinence and are great for active people as they offer discretion and comfort.
Adult Briefs (Diapers): These are highly absorbent and are fastened using tabs provided at the sides. Moreover, these are normally prescribed for people with severe incontinence, restricted movement, or those who are confined to their bed.
Bed Pads/Underpads: These are used on the bed, chair, or any surface you want to protect from leakage. Additionally, they are used alongside other products for enhanced protection.

4. Consider Material and Skin Sensitivity

Incontinence products are generally used for a long time; therefore, the material must be one that does not irritate the skin.

That said, today, many products come with features such as hypoallergenic and latex-free for those with sensitive skin. Such products do not leave the skin wet and hence avoid skin rashes and related complications.

So, look for products that advertise features such as:

Odor Control: To reduce the smell that may come from urine, thus making the users more confident.
Moisture Lock: An outer layer that wicks moisture away from the skin can be of great benefit in preventing skin problems.
Breathable Material: Incontinence products are designed to be breathable so that air can freely flow through them to promote the well-being of the skin.

5. Check Size and Fit

Of all the factors, the size of incontinence products is the most important in ensuring the best comfort and efficient usage. This is because a product tightly fitted to the body can be uncomfortable, while if it is loose, it may leak easily.

All incontinence products are available in different sizes (S, M, L, etc.) and often have a flexible waist or other features that ensure correct wearing.

Thus, to determine the right size, try taking measurements around the hips and the waist and look at the sizing chart of the intended product. Make sure that the product perfectly covers the area to be protected but is not too tight.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the proper incontinent care product can make a vast difference in your quality of life or that of your family member. Therefore, you just need to select the right absorbency level, style fit, and skin sensitivity to get a quality product that is comfortable and protective. Remember, incontinence is something that can happen to anyone. However, dealing with the proper products is less stressful than expected.

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