Urinary incontinence is a common health condition that is prevalent worldwide. While it mostly affects the elderly, it can happen to younger individuals as well and causes involuntary loss of urine. Although there are many ways that it can be treated or managed, the most common and efficient of those is the use of diapers for elders. This article will help you learn all about incontinence briefs or diapers so that you can know the benefits associated with their usage and also buy the right diapers for your needs.
What are Adult DiapersDiapers for old age are simple disposable briefs that are designed to provide protection from urine leakage and contain solid waste as well. They are highly effective for individuals suffering from incontinence issues as they help to keep you dry and comfortable. An adult diaper is made with multiple layers of absorbent fabric which can swiftly and efficiently absorb moisture. These fabric layers are also lined with a polymer known as sodium polyacrylate which is a powdery substance. When its molecules come in contact with moisture they immediately swell up and lock it inside, turning the liquid into its gel form. This tremendously helps in preventing leaks.
The core of the diapers is also capable of keeping you fresh by neutralizing the foul odour from the urine. Many diapers for elders also contain added fragrance which also keeps you smelling pleasant. These diapers have a soft base and are snug but gently contouring elasticated bands at the legs and waist which feel comfortable and prevent leaks too.
Types of Diapers for EldersThere are many different kinds of disposable diapers available for the elderly struggling with incontinence. Of these, adult diaper pants are the most commonly available and used products of all. These diapers have a design that’s very similar to regular briefs and therefore can be used just like one too, by simply putting your legs through them. Adult pant-style diapers are comfy, provide protection from medium to heavy leakage and can be used by anyone suffering from this condition.
Another very commonly used type of adult diaper is a tape-style diaper. These are mostly used by caregivers to dress bedridden patients or those individuals who have any physical limitations preventing them from wearing diapers on their own. Such a diaper has an open panel design which needs to be taped around the waist for closure. They are also very comfortable and provide protection from heavy incontinence.
An overnight diaper for old age is a diaper that is specially designed to provide leakage protection at night. These diapers have very high absorbing capacities and a strategic design to allow sound leakage control even when you are in a reclined position.
Other than these, there are also some others such as disposable plastic briefs which need to be worn over your regular underwear, and incontinence pads that are ideal for light incontinence and can be used to line your regular underwear.
Benefits of Using Diapers for EldersThere are myriad benefits to using adult diapers. Some of them are mentioned below:
- They prevent leakage of urine and help to keep you dry and comfortable throughout the day.
- They can also hold feces until you are able to clean up after yourself and prevent mess.
- They are a hygienic, easy and clean solution to combat incontinence issues.
- With the help of a diaper for old age, you can engage in social activities without worrying about embarrassing accidents.
- Overnight diapers further help you to gain a peaceful night’s sleep which is imperative for staying healthy, active and alert.
- Adult diapers allow you to stay stress-free and lead an independent life.
- They help you to live a life of dignity, minimizing accidents, becoming self-reliant and reducing the burden on your caregivers.
How to Choose the Right Adult Diapers
Choosing the right diaper for old age is extremely necessary for optimum protection from leakage and comfort. Here are a few things you must keep in mind while choosing a diaper for yourself.
- Brand- Do your research by reading reviews and taking recommendations from others to find a good brand. Usually, a well-known and popular diaper brand delivers what it claims and also offers you a good design, comfort, fit and quality in its product.
- Type- You must understand your needs and select the type of diaper, whether it’s an adult pant diaper, a tape-style diaper, an overnight diaper or anything else, which can meet them ideally.
- Absorbency- You must always check the absorbency capacity of a diaper before buying it. Your diaper must not only have enough capacity to soak up all the released fluid but also be quick in doing so to prevent leaks.
- Size- Always make sure to use a diaper that fits you well and is neither too tight nor too loose. It must be just right for maximum comfort and leakage prevention, and to avoid certain issues like rashes, skin tears, blood flow restriction etc.
- Material- If you have any allergies or you have extra-sensitive skin then you must make sure to check the ingredients list on the diaper pack to avoid any that can lead to inflammation etc.
- Cost- Once you have determined all the above-given factors in your selected diapers and narrowed down your list of favourites, it is time to compare the prices to get your best deal. Also, make sure to invest in m monthly packs to enjoy low cost per unit diaper.
Conclusion
Although urinary and bowel incontinence are hugely problematic issues but are fairly manageable with little to no effort, thanks to diapers for elders. These disposable diapers are extremely comfy for all-day wear and continue to soak fluid and provide you with leakage protection for very long hours, keeping you dry and fresh. So, if you or any of your family member suffers from this health condition and wish to lead a normal, carefree life, then you must take the help of adult diapers. They are the sure way to manage incontinence, restore and uphold your dignity and provide you with that stress-free and independent lifestyle that you desire.