Among various health conditions that seniors suffer from is urinary incontinence or bedwetting, which causes discomfort not only to them but also their caretakers. Also, changing their soiled sheets of an elderly person is both embarrassing and draining for the caregivers.
However, fortunately, you can avail a range of bedwetting supplies to prevent leaks and make the cleaning process easier.
In bedwetting supplies, you can avail bedwetting pads for adults, waterproof mattresses, among other supplies. They are helpful to prevent leaks and clean up after the bedwetting situations.
Though, with several options to choose from, you can get confused. So, you need to consider several aspects before your purchases. Thus, we bring you this guide to help you in making your selection among the different bedwetting pads for seniors.
Which bedwetting supplies for seniors are available?
A good way of caring for an elderly person who suffers from urinary incontinence is by applying layers of washable and disposable materials. By doing so, you prevent leaks while considerably reducing the cleanup time.
Waterproof Mattress Cover
Rather than replacing and cleaning mattresses, the use of a mattress cover is more viable. Place a waterproof mattress that is made of vinyl or urethane underneath the mattress of the aging adult’s mattress to keep the mattress dry.
Waterproof Mattress Pad
Put a soft waterproof mattress pad atop the mattress cover.
Waterproof Underpad
Place an underpad atop the bedsheet, whereby, you can quickly change the cover when wet. Waterproof underpads are both disposable and washable.
Follow by covering the bed with sheets and blankets. You may find washing blankets that you use for layering for warmth easier as compared to washing a comforter. By dressing seniors in disposable absorbent products or adult diapers, leaks can be prevented.
Aspects to consider when selecting bedwetting pads
Refer to the following details to know about the important aspects to consider when purchasing bedwetting supplies.
Which materials are used?
Waterproof materials are either made of urethane or vinyl. Vinyl is not a breathable fabric, and generates heat which can disrupt sleep. Urethane, on the other hand, facilitates heat transfer and remains cool. Also, as compared to urethane, vinyl is cheaper. Though, urethane has longer-lasting qualities than vinyl.
Comparing fitted and zippered mattress covers
You can unzip zippered vinyl mattress covers from only one end. And you have to lift the mattress for changing the zipped mattress covers.
Conversely, you do not have to lift the mattress when using fitted mattress covers. Even so, they do not offer protection from allergens or bedbugs.
Also, both zippered and fitted mattress covers extend protection to mattresses from moisture.
What about size?
A good strategy is to take measurements of your mattress before you order a mattress protector. Check the mattress specifications such as depth, width, and length. The width and length measurements are standard (ranging from king to queen to full to twin). But, you have to measure mattress depth for the best fit. If you’re not sure about the specifications, opt for the next big size.
How about absorption ability?
The absorption ability of reusable bed pads is an important consideration. Check how effectually they can absorb liquids beforehand. Study the product descriptions and packaging details; they will mention the amount of liquid the bed pads can absorb in ounces or milliliters.
Normally, you have to pay more for extra absorbency. Always determine the needs of the elderly person who is in your care, since skimping on absorbency may not be advisable.
Are they slip-resistant?
Underpads must be slip resistant because they will not serve their purpose if they are out of place. Go with bed pads that remain in place overnight – particularly, for restless persons.
While some washable bed pads contain tuck-in flaps that are tuckable under mattresses to secure them in place, others contain underlayers that are composed of fabrics designed for holding the underneath fabric.
How to clean?
Before your purchases, you may want to know about the different ways of cleaning the bedwetting supplies. Of course, you want easy-to-clean supplies. However, both vinyl and polyurethane sheets do not require much effort to keep them clean.
In the case of vinyl sheets, you have to wipe them clean; and for polyurethane sheets, only put them in the washing machine.
