Continence concerns are common as we age — and they can feel difficult to talk about. The good news is that there are many ways to manage continence at home comfortably and discreetly, while keeping daily life as normal as possible.
What do continence issues mean?
Continence refers to bladder and bowel control. Changes can occur gradually or suddenly and are usually caused by a medical or physical factor. Importantly, continence issues may be treatable and manageable — and you don’t need to cope alone.
Common types of incontinence in older people
- Urge incontinence: a sudden, strong need to go, sometimes not making it in time.
- Stress incontinence: leakage when coughing, sneezing, or lifting.
- Overflow incontinence: bladder doesn’t empty fully, leading to dribbling.
- Functional incontinence: mobility, arthritis, or slow movement make getting to the toilet in time hard.
Everyday strategies that help at home
- Toileting routines: Going at set times can prevent urgency.
- Hydration timing: drink regularly throughout the day and avoid excessive late-night drinking.
- Easy toilet access: keep the path to the bathroom clear and well-lit.
- Clothing choices: elastic waistbands and easy-fastening clothes reduce rushing.
Helpful continence aids and home equipment
Products can make daily life easier and reduce stress. The “best” option depends on mobility, comfort, and when leakage happens.
- Pads and liners: for light to moderate protection.
- Pull-up briefs: comfortable for day-to-day wear.
- All-in-one briefs: higher protection, often preferred overnight.
- Bed and chair protectors: washable or disposable.
- Commodes or raised toilet seats: helpful when mobility is limited.
- Toilet rails: improve safety and independence.
Your local Just Better Care team can work with you and other healthcare professionals to help you choose and fit products so you feel secure and comfortable.
Skin care and infection prevention
Protecting skin is essential when leakage happens regularly. Gentle cleansing, barrier creams, and changing continence aids promptly can prevent irritation and infections.
When to involve a nurse or GP?
Seek clinical support if you notice:
- new or sudden incontinence
- pain or burning when urinating
- blood in urine
- fever, confusion, or strong urine odour
- Ongoing constipation or bowel changes
- Or any change to your normal bowel or bladder habits
These can be signs of infections or other treatable conditions.
How can Just Better Care help with continence at home?
Our Nurses can undertake a continence assessment to ensure individualised support and management. Our Support Workers can support continence routines, help with hygiene and continence aid changes, and work alongside your health team if additional support is needed. Support services can be as light or as regular as required.
If you’d like to talk privately, your local Just Better Care team is here to help.
