Incontinence Products Defined
The following information will help you decide which incontinence products are right for your parent, and will help promote the most comfortable lifestyle for your parent and your family.
Adult incontinence products are often thought of as "diapers," but the product range has evolved to include various styles that cater to differing comfort and protection needs. Many products are designed specifically for men or women and are available in various absorbencies for day and night use.
- Protective Underwear. More active incontinent adults may prefer protective underwear, which are applied and removed by pulling on and off, similar to regular underwear. Most brands also can be removed by ripping the sides, so that other clothing does not have to be removed during the process. Several brands are made of cloth-like material that reduces noise and increases comfort.
- Briefs. Similar to children’s diapers, these products feature refastenable front or side tabs. The products can be applied while sitting, lying down or standing. Like protective underwear, many types of briefs feature cloth-like material that reduces noise and increases comfort.
- Pant Liners, Pads, Guards & Shields. These products are disposable and used in conjunction with regular underwear. Liners, pads and guards are typically shaped to fit the body for better comfort and are shaped differently for men and women. Disposable pads and liners can also be used with reusable underwear that is designed specifically for incontinence. These special panties or briefs are made of either nylon or cotton, and have a sewn-in pouch to hold pads and liners in place.
- Belted Undergarments. By using buttons or straps to secure a thin elastic strip around the waist, disposable belted undergarments feature less material than briefs and pull-ons and work well for socially active wearers. Some products also feature Velcro straps for those who prefer not to use buttons or straps on the belt.
- Underpads. Pads are designed in different sizes and absorbencies to protect chairs, couches and mattresses. These furniture pads can be either disposable or reusable.
- Disposable Washcloths (or Wipes). Disposable washcloths are handy for on-the-go cleaning as well as a more complete cleaning instead of regular toilet paper. Pre-moistened or dry washcloths come in plastic tubs and often feature moisturizer to treat users' delicate skin.
- Skin Barriers and Wash Creams. Some companies offer lotions and wash creams specifically for incontinence product users to help prevent rashes and discomfort by helping to keep them feeling clean, fresh and comfortable.
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