14 Jul Incontinence: A Common Condition, But Not an Inevitable Part of Aging
Incontinence Is Common But Not Inevitable: How Care To Stay Home Can Help
At Care To Stay Home in Spokane, we know how sensitive and often misunderstood the topic of incontinence can be for older adults and their families. While it’s true that incontinence becomes more common with age, it is not a natural or inevitable part of aging. In fact, in many cases, it is preventable, manageable, and even reversible with the right support.
Understanding Incontinence
Incontinence is the loss of bladder or bowel control and affects millions of Americans, especially older adults. There are several types, including:
– Urge incontinence – a sudden, intense urge to urinate
– Stress incontinence – leakage during coughing, sneezing, or lifting
– Overflow incontinence – incomplete bladder emptying
– Functional incontinence – related to mobility or cognitive issues
Despite how common it is, many seniors suffer in silence, believing it’s simply part of “getting older.” That belief can lead to embarrassment, isolation, and even health complications like urinary tract infections, skin breakdown, or falls.
Incontinence Is Often Preventable
There are many factors that contribute to incontinence, including:
– Weakened pelvic floor muscles
– Medication side effects
– Mobility limitations
– Chronic conditions like diabetes, stroke, or dementia
– Poor hydration habits or bladder irritants
With proper care, many of these factors can be addressed early. Prevention starts with awareness, early screening, and daily support—areas where Care To Stay Home can make a meaningful difference.
How Care To Stay Home Can Help
At Care To Stay Home, we take a proactive, dignified approach to incontinence care:
Personalized Incontinence Management
We assess the root cause of incontinence and create a care plan that supports better bladder health, not just symptom control. Our caregivers are trained in:
– Timed toileting and bladder training
– Prompted voiding for those with memory loss
– Safe transfer assistance to prevent accidents
– Hygiene routines to reduce skin irritation or infections
Pelvic Floor Support
For clients working with physical therapists, our caregivers can reinforce recommended pelvic floor exercises to strengthen the muscles that support bladder control.
Healthy Lifestyle Routines
We support hydration tracking, proper nutrition, and reducing irritants like caffeine or artificial sweeteners that can aggravate incontinence.
Dignified Assistance
Our home caregivers in Spokane, WA, treat incontinence with sensitivity and respect. We know how to manage the condition discreetly and compassionately to maintain our clients’ confidence, dignity, and independence.
You Don’t Have to Live With Incontinence
Incontinence may be common, but it doesn’t have to take control of your life or your loved one’s. With early intervention, proper care, and a personalized plan, older adults can regain control and feel more confident.
If you or a loved one is experiencing signs of incontinence, let’s talk. Our Spokane-based team at Care To Stay Home is here to help, providing in-home care solutions that go beyond symptom management to promote real quality of life.
Call us today at (509) 381-4600 to schedule a free in-home consultation.