Incontinence - tips for carers

Incontinence means a person cannot always control when they pass urine (wee) or faeces (poo).

Many people in Australia experience incontinence. With the right support, they can still take part in daily life, relationships and activities.

Caring for someone with incontinence is important work but can sometimes be stressful or overwhelming. It helps to remember:

• incontinence is a health condition
• it is not a normal part of ageing
• many treatments and supports are available to help improve, manage or cure incontinence.

With support, both you and the person you care for can feel more confident and in control.

Help is available for carers

Support is available to help you manage incontinence with confidence. Trained professionals can help make daily care easier, safer and more dignified.

Support options include:

• your GP (doctor)
• the National Continence Helpline 1800 33 00 66 (free and confidential)
• nurse continence specialists
• pelvic health physiotherapists
• continence clinics
• local health services and carer supports.

A continence assessment can help identify causes and create a care plan that suits the person’s needs.

Continence assessment

A continence assessment can help you understand what is happening and what support will work best. It is usually done by a continence nurse. The goal is to create a care plan that suits the person’s needs and daily life.

During an assessment, the health professional may ask about:

• the person’s medical history
• how often the person uses the toilet
• how much urine (wee) is passed
• what the faeces (poo) look like
• whether there is leaking of urine of faeces
• diet and how much the person drinks
• medicines including prescription, over-the-counter and herbal
• current health concerns
• daily living skills such as washing, dressing and eating
• whether the person recognises the need to use the toilet.

Tests may include:

• a urine test
• a bladder scan – an (ultrasound done on the lower abdomen (belly).

This information helps guide the right treatment plan.

Incontinence management and treatment

Treatment depends on the type and cause of incontinence. Many people’s symptoms improve with the right support and simple changes.

Options may include:

• pelvic floor exercises
• bladder training – gradually increasing the time between toilet visits
• training in good toilet habits
• medicines, (eg to treat constipation)
• continence products such as pads or protective underwear.

A tailored plan can improve comfort, reduce accidents and support dignity and independence.

General tips for carers

Focus on dignity and respect

• Speak in a calm, respectful way
• Protect the person’s privacy
• Involve them in decisions about their care
• Use positive, simple language.

Incontinence can affect a person’s confidence and sense of independence. Support them in ways that maintain dignity and choice.

Build a simple routine

• Encourage regular toilet times
• Keep daily routines consistent
• Allow enough time to get to the toilet.

A routine can reduce accidents and help the person feel more secure.

Plan ahead

• Carry spare clothes and continence products when going out
• Know where public toilets are located – the National Public Toilet Map can help
• Keep supplies in easy reach at home.

Planning ahead can reduce stress for both of you.

Choose the right products

• Pads, continence pants and other aids can improve comfort
• The right product depends on the person’s needs
• A nurse continence specialist can advise on options
• Clothing with velcro fasteners or elastic waistbands can be easier to manage than zippers or buttons
• Choose machine-washable clothing that is easy to care for.

Using the right products can protect skin, reduce leaks and build confidence.

Toileting tips

Suggestions include:

• Make sure the path to the toilet is clear
• Use night lights to improve safety
• Consider aids such as handrails or raised toilet seats
• Remind the person to use the toilet regularly
• Do not rush the person while they are on the toilet
• Consider a portable commode or urinal bottle near the bed to decrease falls risk
• Use accessible (disabled) toilets when out. These are often unisex and have space for a carer

If needed, a health professional can suggest equipment to make toileting safer and easier.

Hygiene and skin care

• Wear disposable gloves when helping with toileting
• Clean skin gently after accidents
• Dry the skin well, cleanse with neutral pH soap, moisturise and apply barrier cream to keep skin healthy
• Change wet clothing or pads regularly
• Do not flush pads or gloves down the toilet – dispose of used continence pads in sanitary bins when available, or tie in a plastic bag and place in the rubbish bin.

Good skin care helps prevent irritation and infection. If there is an unresolved rash, see your GP or nurse continence specialist for assessment and treatment.

Food and fluids

• Include fibre in the diet to prevent constipation – fruit, vegetables, wholegrains, legumes, nuts and seeds
• Drink enough fluids throughout the day – your health professional can tell the person you care for how much is right for them. Water is the best choice
• Limit or avoid drinks such as caffeine, alcohol or sugary drinks if they worsen symptoms.

Looking after yourself

Caring can be rewarding, but it can also be tiring. It is important to:

• take breaks when you can
• ask for help
• talk to someone you trust
• use support services such as Carers Australia or Carer Gateway.

When you look after your own wellbeing, you can provide better care.

When to see the doctor for issues related to incontinence

See a doctor if:

• incontinence starts suddenly
• symptoms get worse
• there is pain, blood or discomfort
• the person has skin issues
• you are unsure how to manage care

Early help can improve outcomes and reduce stress.

Caring for someone with incontinence takes patience, respect and strength. While there may be challenges, support and practical solutions are available. With the right help, you can improve comfort, dignity and quality of life for both of you.

Where to get help

• Your GP (doctor)
• Local continence clinic or service
• National Continence Hotline Tel. 1800 33 00 66
• Carers Australia Tel. 1800 242 636
• My Aged Care Information Line Tel. 1800 200 422