Caring for an aging loved one frequently includes doing things that make you uncomfortable, such as assisting your loved one with “bathroom troubles.” Many seniors struggle with toileting as they age for various reasons. This is a sensitive subject that can be hard for both caregivers and the elderly to talk about.
Caregivers may initially experience some discomfort while assisting seniors with such personal issues. Bathroom issues may be embarrassing for the elderly to cope with, and it is difficult for them to discuss. Many seniors may also be afraid to talk about their bathroom problems because they don’t want to lose their independence if others know about them.
If a senior in your life is having restroom problems, it’s essential to remember that this is common and that you may still assist them while preserving their privacy.
Bathroom Issues Seniors Face At Home
As we age, it might be more difficult to maintain some of the basic activities of daily living that we formerly took for granted, such as using the toilet. Seniors may suffer from restroom issues as a result of normal aging changes such as weakness or a lack of movement. For others, side effects from medication, as well as lifestyle factors such as food and activity, might cause problems going to the toilet.
The following are some of the most common toileting issues that the elderly face:
Incontinence
Fecal incontinence affects certain elderly people. This may make it difficult to use the toilet, resulting in accidents.
Falling
Every 11 seconds, an elderly person falls. According to studies, 80 percent of all home falls occur in the bathroom. Elderly adults may be afraid of falling and avoid using the restroom.
Disability
Many older adults lose flexibility and strength, making activities of daily living (ADLs) such as walking to the bathroom, sitting and standing at the toilet, and cleaning more difficult.
What Can Family Do To Help Elderly Bathroom Challenges
Seeing a senior with restroom concerns might be disturbing. If you’ve never helped an older person with grooming, bathing, or going to the bathroom, it might be scary.
How can you help without being obvious, while still meeting your loved one’s needs and keeping the relationship good?
It all comes down to taking simple actions based on your senior loved one’s needs and your preferences as a family caregiver.
Make The Bathroom Easier To Use
According to research, environmental factors account for 30-50 percent of seniors’ falls. If your loved one has difficulty using the toilet or is frightened of slipping and falling, you can help by making it safer for them. We can make a bathroom more senior-friendly by adding new lighting, non-slip floor mats, a higher toilet seat, grab bars, and an alarm button.
Getting The Help You Need For Elderly Toileting Issues
A doctor may help diagnose incontinence, constipation, and digestive difficulties, and a companion can help with bathing, grooming, toileting, and dressing. Companions can be a great support system, offering much-appreciated help and support.
Conclusion
Avacare Medical have a great range of toileting aids that can be of help when helping to toilet an elderly person. Check out their website for items to make your elderly loved one’s toileting experience a stress-free experience for all concerned.