At some point, you’ll be dealing with incontinent issues in the bedroom, and we know how difficult this can be. But there‘s a lot you can do to help the person and the bed stay dry and ease your caregiving tasks. Be sure to see a doctor, though, to rule out any medical problems as a cause.
Use Absorbent Products
Using a mattress pad will help keep the mattress from getting soaked. A cloth pad with waterproof backing will be more comfortable for sleeping than vinyl, but buy two so you can throw one in the wash as needed. However, if you are using a pressure-relieving mattress or topper, do NOT use a mattress pad as they eliminate the pressure relief.
You can also place smaller absorbent pads (also referred to as chuxs) over the bottom sheet. Some caregivers like the throwaway pads that tuck under the edge of the mattress so there is no bunching up. Next, make sure the person uses absorbent pads or underwear. Some people resist less to wearing them if you don’t refer to them as “diapers” and if you get the pull-up kind, which seem more like real underwear. With all these products, it’s key that you choose the correct absorbency – otherwise the sheets will still become wet. Higher absorbent products cost more, but they’re worth it.
Use a Commode
There may be times when it’s safer for the person to use a commode in the bedroom than walk to the bathroom, especially at night. Look for one with removable arms if the person is sliding across the bed to use it. Some commodes come with a lift-up mechanism that can help with rising. If the person is at risk for falls, consider removing the night table by the wall next to the bed and place the commode in-between the bed and the wall as we did here. You can see our review of the best commodes with lift up assistance here.
