Urinary incontinence refers to the involuntary leakage of urine. It happens when a person loses control over their urinary sphincter. As a result, they urinate even when they do not want to.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, urinary incontinence is commonly present among people over sixty years old and is more prevalent among the female group. This condition carries serious implications in a person’s quality of life. For instance, elders avoid social interactions for fear of wetting their pants and smelling of urine.

Abundant Life Assisted Services, an In-Home Elderly Care that provides Senior Home Care Services in Georgia, lists down some natural ways you can help your senior loved one treat urinary incontinence. Continue reading to know what these are.

1. Exercise your pelvic floor muscles.

   One of the functions of your pelvic floor muscles is that it assists in urinary and fecal continence. Pelvic floor exercise, also known as Kegel exercise, is a great technique to treat incontinence. This exercise improves bladder control and reduces urine leakage. Ask our physical therapists about it.

2. Get enough vitamin D.

   Vitamin D does not only promote healthy bones, but it also helps maintain muscle strength. In fact, in a study published in Obstetrics and Gynecology, women who have higher levels of vitamin D were less likely to develop pelvic floor dysfunction, including urinary incontinence. So, let your senior loved one eat food rich in vitamin D, like milk and fish. Exposing them to the early morning sunlight for ten minutes daily also enables the body make vitamin D.

3. Quit smoking!

   Studies have found a direct link between urinary incontinence and smoking. They suggest that heavy smokers are more likely to experience incontinence compared to non-smokers. This is because nicotine, a substance found in cigarettes and tobaccos, can irritate the bladder.

4. Drink six to eight glasses of fluids daily.

   Drinking enough fluids is important in managing incontinence. Dehydration can result to constipation and this can irritate the bladder and cause incontinence. Avoid drinking too much coffee as it can contribute to bladder irritation and stimulate muscle contraction. Opt for water instead.

5. Maintain a healthy weight.

   Being overweight or obese can put pressure on your bladder. This can result in incontinence. Lose those extra pounds by engaging in physical activities. Old age should not be an excuse not to exercise. Even mild exercises, like walking, will do.

6. Visit your doctor.

   Although urinary incontinence is common among the senior group, this does not imply that it is a normal part of aging. To identify the right treatment, seek a doctor’s expertise.

We know how difficult it is to meet the needs of your senior loved ones. We are here to help you. We offer a variety of In-Home Elderly Care Services. One of this is incontinence care. To know more about the services we cater, please do not hesitate to give us a call at 678-319-0307. You may also visit our website at www.alascare.com.