Toileting safety

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Male urinary system

If you are caring for someone who needs assistance to use the toilet, developing a call system (such as a bell or buzzer) to alert the caretaker to the needs of the person may be helpful. Often there is little time between the first urge to urinate and an incontinence episode. Therefore, the caretaker must be attentive to the toileting needs of the immobile person.

People with impaired dexterity (such as weakness resulting from stroke, spinal cord injury, or arthritis) may benefit from modifying their clothing so it is easier to manipulate. Consider choosing clothing with a zipper instead of buttons, which may be difficult to manipulate.

Some people have replaced all zippers and button closures on their clothing with Velcro, which is much easier to use. Do not wear too many layers of clothing or underwear, which may be cumbersome to remove. If diapers or containment devices are used, choose devices that are easily removed.

A vocational therapist or rehabilitation therapist can provide you with a list of manufacturers of "ready to wear" clothing and assistive devices.

Review Date: 03/03/2006
Reviewed By: Sandra W. Cohen, M.D. Private Practice specializing in geriatrics, Brooklyn,NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.