Cleanliness is an important area of caring for someone with incontinence. It’s also one where you can make a big, positive difference to their happiness and comfort.
Incontinence and hygiene
Why is hygiene so important?
Elderly skin is already fragile. And incontinence can make it even weaker. This can happen if the moisture from urine and/or feces stays on your loved one’s skin. Then their skin might not be able to form a protective a barrier. As a result it could start to break down. Once the skin is open, bacteria could enter and cause an uncomfortable rash.
Why not traditional soap?
Now, you might think that regularly washing will solve the problem. But if you clean their skin frequently with normal soap and water, it could make the situation worse. Washing with standard soap can dry the skin, weakening it even more. That can cause a rash, which, combined with incontinence, can reduce their skin’s ability to prevent infection.
While none of these sound very pleasant, there are several ways you can help to take good care of your loved one’s skin.
Skin care tips for you and your loved one
Many caregivers have found that replacing traditional cleansing, using soap and water, with “no-rinse” products has simplified their routines. These products also help to give elderly skin a break from constant washing with water, which can be drying.
Our TENA Cleansing Cream is a mild, no-rinse, cleanser that has the added benefit of also moisturizing and protecting elderly skin.
It’s not news that incontinence can cause unpleasant odors, which can then make your loved one feel self-conscious or uncomfortable. However, it’s important not to use overly perfumed products that simply mask the smell. Our TENA skin care line will not only help your loved one feel refreshed, but it will also help to control and eliminate odors.
Having several different types of disposable wipes on hand would help you to simplify and ease your loved one’s daily hygiene routines.
- Disposable dry wipes can help to minimize the risk of cross infection, which can sometimes occur from reusable towels.
- Disposable wet wipes are very convenient as they provide a quick and easy way to feel refreshed in between showers or while you’re helping your loved one change their incontinence products.
Below you can find more information about our specially formulated TENA wipes. They will help to make your loved one’s hygiene routine quick and simple. With their special texture and soft material, you can be confident that our wipes will help to clean and soothe your loved one’s delicate skin.
A helpful checklist
It’s good to always be equipped and ready to clean your loved one when they need your help. Below is a list of things that are essential to have on hand, in your home or when traveling. Having these products on hand will allow you to keep them feeling clean and comfortable around the clock.
- Disposable wet wipes (for quick cleanups) and dry wipes for washing with water
- Disposable gloves
- Extra underwear, extra products for incontinence protection (briefs or underwear in case of accidents whether at home or out and about)
- Gentle cleansing lotions or washes for use with water or “no rinse” solution (especially if your loved one has frequent accidents or you are away from home)
- Extra-large zip lock plastic bags (for soiled clothing and/or used products for incontinence protection)
