Urinary incontinence is a common problem among older individuals and is usually triggered by a loss of bladder and sphincter control. This condition occurs when a patient leaks urine by accident. If it persists over two or three days, one should consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Many factors can lead to incontinence, and early diagnosis can help patients find relief. Incontinence aids are devices and accessories that help people manage their condition.

Effective incontinence aid types
Prescription treatments, lifestyle changes, physical therapy, non-invasive therapies, and surgical procedures are the common treatment approaches for treating incontinence in men and women. If the incontinence persists, doctors advise them to use products called incontinence aids to protect them from urine leakage. It can save them from the inconvenience and embarrassment of sudden leakage when they laugh, cough, or sneeze. Some common types of incontinence aids are listed below.

• Absorbent pads and pants
• Disposable pads and pants
• Reusable pads and pants
• Mattress pads
• Chair pads
• Penile sheaths
• Catheters

Health experts discuss with the patients and suggest the best product for them based on the severity of the leak, the patient’s age, their ability to use the aids well, and their lifestyle. Before choosing a product, it is also important to have a proper disposable plan to get rid of used pads daily.

Easy-to-use incontinence aids for older adults
The pelvic muscles, bladder, and lower urinary tract weaken due to aging. In addition, if elders have prostate issues, arthritis, or other mobility issues, they may face difficulty reaching the bathroom on time, causing incontinence. Due to incontinence, many elders may isolate themselves and avoid socializing, fearing sudden urine leakage. Urine incontinence aids are products that older adults can use to participate in routine personal and social activities without fear. Some easy-to-use incontinence aids for elders are listed below.

Bed sheet protector
A bed sheet protector or an underpad is an absorbent pad placed above the bedsheet. These pads can be placed on cars, chairs, and sofas. The pads absorb the urine and prevent it from spreading on the bed.

Adult diapers
Adult diapers are very convenient and easy to use for elders. Many seniors prefer diapers, which they can wear throughout the day and are easy to dispose of. They are available in different types and sizes. Diapers do not obstruct them from doing any of their daily activities.

Incontinence underwear
Incontinence underwear is ideal for people experiencing mild incontinence. The underwear has a stretchy waistband and can be worn like regular briefs. Reusable and disposable underwear is available in many sizes for men and women.

Disposable pads
These are made of reusable thick cotton or disposable fabric with a waterproof backing. Adults can insert it into their underwear with the attached adhesive strips so they do not move while walking. It is comfortable, less invasive, and affordable.

Incontinence aids for men
Besides the above incontinence aids, some products are designed exclusively for men. They include-

• External catheters are rolled on the genitals like catheters. It sends the urine to a drainage bag. It is ideal for the night and helps patients get a good night’s sleep without frequent trips to the bathroom.
• Penile clamps are external compression devices that exert a little pressure on the genitals to prevent urine leakage. It is made with soft foam, and patients comfortably wear it. However, it is always advised to use it under a doctor’s prescription.

Incontinence aids for women
There are some incontinence aids specially designed for women apart from the popular pads and incontinence underwear. Always talk to your doctor or a gynecologist before using any invasive device to avoid complications like bleeding or infections.

• Intravaginal devices like pessaries can be inserted into the vagina, which applies pressure on the urethra and prevents leaking.
• Tampons can effectively prevent mild incontinence; however, they should not be used for long periods.

These devices are recommended only for stress urinary incontinence (SUI), where urine leaks when women laugh, cough, or sneeze.

Leading incontinence aid companies
There is a wide range of incontinence aids available in the market for all age groups. Some of the leading incontinence aid companies include-

• Procter & Gamble makes a range of incontinence aids, including absorbent pads, liners, diapers, and tampons.
• Kimberly-Clark Corporation has multiple brands like Depend®, ‎Poise®, and Plenitud, with products ranging from absorbent pads to liners and underwear.
• Essity has a range of incontinence aids under the brand TENA both for men and women.
• Cardinal Health Inc makes pads, liners, undergarments, mesh pants, underpads, briefs, and underwear to manage urine leakage.
• B. Braun makes catheters for men and provides support from leading urologists to help manage incontinence in men.
• Coloplast makes urine sheaths, bags, and catheters for men and women with incontinence.