A few types of incontinence can be stress, urge, functional, or overflow incontinence. These all refer to why the body has difficulty managing the flow of urine or bowel movements. Stress incontinence often happens when there is more pressure on the bladder, such as during exercise or sneezing. Urge incontinence, also referred to as overactive bladder, can occur when there is damage to the muscles, which can be a result of a medical condition or aging. Overflow incontinence is when you cannot appropriately empty your bladder, so it often feels full. Causes of this can be weak muscles, an enlarged prostate, constipation, nerve damage, or certain medications.

Incontinence care can be treated in several different ways. Some older adults may not be able to utilize their pelvic muscles as successfully as before, which may result in the need for incontinence pads or similar liners. It's imperative that these pads get changed frequently and that proper hygiene follows. It is easy for individuals who are bedbound or sitting for long periods to develop bed sores or wounds, which can become infections if not properly treated. Treatment of incontinence care typically includes medications that can reduce the urge to frequently use the restroom, training the body to use the restroom at times, surgery, and diet changes.

With home health staff, hygiene is a priority, especially for those at risk of getting sores. Having someone come to the home to regularly check on you or your loved one can decrease the likelihood of incontinence issues. Caregivers can pick up supplies when running low, pick up prescriptions from the pharmacy, take individuals to their appointments, change pads, clean the body appropriately, and monitor skin conditions.