Adult incontinence is not a subject that most people feel comfortable discussing. However, millions of adults suffer from urinary and fecal incontinence and it is very common. People who experience adult incontinence rely on products such as incontinence pads and adult diapers. Although most incontinence products are used by people who cannot control the function of their bladder and bowels, these products are often used for people who do have control of their functions, however, cannot physically maneuver themselves onto the toilet in time, because of a physical or mental handicap. For whichever reason an individual utilizes these products, it is important to know how to correctly purchase them.
When purchasing incontinence products for an adult, an important piece of information to have is their waist size. The waist size is very important, because this is how the products are sold. If the product is purchased in the wrong size, they will not only be ill fitting, they will not work to contain an incontinent episode which could cause a soiling problem or embarrassment for the individual. Another important factor when purchasing incontinent products is how much incontinence protection is needed for the person wearing them. Adult incontinence products are available for severe incontinence, moderate incontinence, and light or occasional incontinence. In addition to purchasing the appropriate size and level of absorbing power that the incontinent product possesses, it is important to be aware of the level of activity that the wearer is capable of. Products are available for persons with an active lifestyle, as well as those individuals that are bedridden. Incontinence products are also available for purchase in both reusable types and disposable types. Many people who wear adult incontinence products can also benefit from special lotions or ointments that provide a protective barrier between the skin and a wet incontinence product. Fragile skin can quickly break down and cause pressure ulcers, if not properly cleaned and protected.
Adult diapers that are made of cloth, are reusable and are often less expensive than their disposable counterparts. Most of the reusable incontinence products need to be worn with plastic, waterproof undergarments, however. Although cloth products are much less expensive, they are not always readily available at retail outlets. Disposable incontinent adult products, on the other hand, are widely available at many retailers, and online. Many times, people feel more comfortable purchasing their incontinent products online. It can be embarrassing when people need to purchase these items for themselves, as many who wear them are relatively young and active. Many people, especially women, suffer from overactive bladder, or a fallen bladder due to childbirth, which can cause significant leakage of urine when sneezing or coughing, laughing, or running. Fortunately, the incontinence products that are currently available are no longer cumbersome and bulky. They can be worn discretely and comfortably, even by the most active people. Although incontinence garments are thin and inconspicuous, these products remain very absorbent and effective in controlling even the most extreme cases of urinary and fecal adult incontinence.
