Seniors with dementia sometimes experience a variety of challenges, and not all of them are directly related to memory. For example, incontinence is not uncommon among seniors living with dementia. However, you can use the following tips to prevent accidents while keeping your elderly loved one comfortable.
Look for a Pattern
When seniors have incontinence, it is common for accidents to happen during certain times of the day. For example, your loved one may need to go to the bathroom during the middle of the night or within an hour after eating a meal. Mississauga dementia caregivers can look for patterns such as these to identify the best time to suggest taking a bathroom break.
Address Physical Causes
Incontinence is sometimes caused by an underlying physical problem that can be addressed. In some instances, a medication may cause urinary urgency or frequency as a side effect. Alternatively, your loved one may have developed a urinary tract infection. Treating these physical conditions can help alleviate incontinence in seniors with dementia or at least reduce the amount of accidents.
Make the Bathroom Recognizable
Dementia symptoms like memory loss or confusion can make it harder for seniors to find the bathroom. Try painting the bathroom door a distinctive color or post a picture of a toilet on the door. At night, try keeping the hall lights on, or use glow-in-the-dark tape to create a path on the floor. Little changes such as these can prevent your loved one from getting lost on the way to the bathroom.
Learn the Cues
Verbalization is often challenging for seniors with dementia, and they may use other cues to let Mississauga, ON, caregivers know they need to go to the restroom. Look for signs of restlessness such as tugging at pants or pacing near the restroom. It is also common for seniors with dementia to ask for the light to be turned on or for something else in the bathroom when they need to go. Guiding your loved one toward the restroom when he or she is sending unusual cues can help prevent accidents.
If your loved one needs help managing the daily challenges of dementia, turn to Home Care Assistance. Our caregivers are trained experts in dementia care, and we also offer specialized care for seniors with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. For more information on the elder home care Mississauga, ON, families rely on, call a qualified Care Manager at 905-337-1200 to schedule a no-obligation consultation.