What is home care?

Caring for elderly parents in their home may be a daunting prospect, as the roles reverse and you become the carer for your parent. This is especially the case when caring for elderly parents who have specific and complex needs. However, caring for your loved ones in their own home can make a huge difference to their life, as it allows them to stay at home where they are most comfortable and settled. In this article, we will consider their physical and emotional comfort, as well as their mental health, using products to help them and keeping their skin well looked after. 

Caring for your parents’ needs  

There are many different factors to consider when caring for an elderly parent with urinary incontinence. It’s not only about keeping them comfortable and leak-free. 

Keep them comfortable 

Accepting they need help can be a distressing time for elderly parents, which may affect their mental health. Try to engage your parents in their favourite hobbies, such as encouraging them to exercise in a way they enjoy, read or do their garden.  

If they are resistant to using certain products to help them, because they feel there is a stigma attached to them, reassure them that it’s a completely natural process and that you only want what’s best for them. Be compassionate and try to understand how difficult it must be for your parent. Acknowledge their concerns and encourage them to reach out to friends and family. You can learn more tips on our blog about caring for people with incontinence at home. 

In terms of physical comfort, make sure you are using appropriate absorbent solutions  to keep them dry and hygienic. Consult your GP to take his best guidance. If they are bedbound or spend a lot of time resting, bed and seat pads may be suitable. If they are still fairly active, encourage them to consider incontinence pads or pants.  

Stay healthy 

Your parents’ overall health is still important, especially as it can be beneficial to their urinary health. Encourage them to drink enough water, eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, as these contain vitamins  that promote bladder health^[1], and discourage them from drinking too many caffeinated or carbonated drinks and eating too much spicy food. Encourage regular exercise to keep them fit and healthy.  

Taking care of dry skin 

Sometimes, individuals suffering from urinary incontinence  find that this condition  can leave their skin feeling dry and sore.^[2] Avoid this by encouraging them to drink caffeine-free drinks, increase their water intake and avoid bathing or showering in overly hot water. They may also find that a gentle, unscented lotion or gel can help to relieve any itchiness or soreness.  

Choose the right products 

At iD, we have a wide range of products available that will help to keep your parents comfortable and dry during home care, including pads and pants, which allow for extra mobility and freedom of movement, while being discreet and comfy. In particular, our iD Protect range offers a variety of bed and seat pads that will allow your parents to rest in their home without worrying about leaks or stains. Through these products, we want to help everyone live life in full view. 

^[1] “How to Create a Diet for Your Overactive Bladder”, Corey Whelan, n.d., Source: https://www.healthline.com/health/overactive-bladder/overactive-bladder-diet 

^[2] “Skin Care”, Continence Foundation of Australia, n.d. Source: https://www.continence.org.au/pages/skin-care.html