One of the biggest problems that arise from incontinence is the unintentional damage that happens to a mattress. This can be a problem that goes from merely difficult to extremely expensive if it is not dealt with. Many caregivers and seniors find it a challenge to protect their mattress from problems that are caused by incontinence. It is important that caregivers understand that both the senior and the mattress need an extra layer of protection. It is simply not enough to provide coverage for the elderly loved one. While the senior can use disposable underwear products in variety of different types to protect them, the mattress will need extra covering as well.

In order to prevent permanent damage to the mattress products such as: mattress pads, incontinence pads and mattress protectors can help. These bedding items work by wicking away moisture from the patient’s skin, and do not allow it to soak through the covering over the mattress. If you are a caregiver for a senior that suffers from incontinence it is important to educate yourself on the products that are available to protect their mattress. Here is what you need to know about how to safeguard a mattress from incontinence.

Use a vinyl or rubber backed mattress protector-There is a large number of bedding items that are designed with a vinyl or rubber back. However it is important to understand that while most mattress protectors are waterproof, they are not all designed the same. Caregivers should understand that some rubber backed mattress protectors are designed to be washed after every use. This is generally true if the style of protector has a cloth top and a rubber backed bottom. However, it can be a drawback, if the product has to be washed after every use. There is also another type of mattress protector which is a zippered bag that is made of vinyl and slides over the entire mattress. The major benefit to this type of product is that it is placed beneath a standard mattress pad and bottom sheet, and can be wiped down with a disinfectant after an accident occurs.

Use incontinence pads-These types of pads can provide an additional layer of protection for both the senior and the mattress. These incontinence pads are usually blue and are available through medical supply stores. They are often used in hospitals but work well for at home use, as well. Because of the demand for greener products, there are incontinence pads that are washable. These bed pads can also be found in medical supply stores or online. You can receive a substantial discount when this time is bought in bulk. The major advantage of this type of item is that it can hold up through a large number of washings.

The Caregiver Partnership helps caregivers and their loved ones with answers to their care giving questions, including information about home health care products and supplies, from our Wisconsin-based team of Product Specialists who are all current or former caregivers. The company’s web site provides the largest online library of resources on subjects most important to caregivers – from arthritis to assisted living, and Parkinson’s to prostate cancer – as well as access to more than 3,000 home care products for incontinence, skin care, mobility, home safety and daily living aids.Dianna Malkowski is a Board Certified Physician Assistant and Mayo Clinic trained nutritionist specializing in diabetes, cancer, wound healing, therapeutic diets, nutrition support and also on Incontinence products. Visit the Care Giver Partnership for more info on Male incontinence products

It is important to understand that incontinence is not a normal part of the aging process. Visit http://www.caregiverpartnership.com/ for more details.

Author Bio: Dianna Malkowski is a Board Certified Physician Assistant and Mayo Clinic trained nutritionist specializing in diabetes, cancer, wound healing, therapeutic diets, nutrition support and also on Incontinence products. Visit the Care Giver Partnership for more info on Male incontinence products

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: Incontinence products, Adult incontinence products, Male incontinence products, Incontinence supplie