Are Adult Diapers Helpful In Case Of Bladder Incontinence?

By Author: Harleen Kaur
Total Articles: 89
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Adult diapers can help you avoid a lot of embarrassment if you have incontinence issues. Be it your bladder, bowel or both, they will help you out of sticky, and sometimes, stinky situations. It could also be used overnight, to avoid making a mess when you wake up the next morning. People with bladder incontinence have been reportedly seen to struggle mostly during the monsoon. With adult diapers, they can now go about their business, without the fear of soiling themselves. They are known by many other names, such as incontinence briefs and incontinence pants.

Materials

Adult diapers are made of breathable materials. The materials have a unique absorption capability as well. Whether it is bladder or bowel incontinence, these diapers absorb it all. The breathable material also prevents the skin from being irritated.

Duration

Adult diapers usually last for 5 to 12 hours. The time depends upon the level of incontinence and the flow. On average, a person may need to change their diapers about 5 to 8 times a day. This is in no way standardized and may vary from one person to the next.

Types

Adult ...
... diapers are usually of two types:

1. Pant-style: These diapers can be worn like underwear. They have an elastic waist that fits the person snugly. Adult diapers available in pant-style are disposable.
2. Tape-style: These diapers need to be fixed at the edges with tape. The disadvantage of this type of diaper is the adhesive that attaches the tapes. They may tend to loosen over extended periods. They also require more dexterity to wear or discard.

Retention Capacity

Adult diapers can hold anywhere between 80 to 100 mL of fluid. The actual amount varies depending upon the company and the material. Apart from this, there are materials across the waist that may prevent solid wastes to be retained as well. However, it should not be retained for more than an hour.

Bladder Issues

Several studies have shown that at least a third of all adults have some form of bladder issue. 80 % of these individuals have been seen to be women. Adult diapers are thus becoming more common in daily usage.

Size

The size of your adult diaper matters a lot. Several reputed company products show that larger-sized diapers hold more fluid as compared to smaller ones. Although the price difference is significantly less, the benefits far outweigh the costs.

Insurance Coverage

Most insurance plans do not cover consumables such as diapers. In almost all countries where adult diapers are used, the costs are borne by the individuals themselves. However, people in the United States, they may ask for assistance in purchasing them if covered under MedicAid.

Cost

Adult diapers cost anywhere between $25 and$30 for a single pack. One pack of diapers can last anywhere between a month to 45 days depending upon the flow. The quality of the products is value for money.

Expiry

This is a commonly asked question by several consumers. Diapers technically do not expire. Old diapers may tend to lose their retentive capacity over time. For tape-style diapers, the adhesive may wear out. For pant-style diapers, the elasticity may wear off over time, causing a loose fit. Thus before trying to use old diapers, make sure integrity of the material components.

Aids in Preserving Dignity

Apart from effectively addressing bladder incontinence, adult diapers can help preserve your dignity. You can commute and attend social gathering without worrying about bladder incontinence with adult diapers. Diapers for adults are suitable for those who suffer from mobility disorders. Even doctors recommend the use of adult diapers after surgery to restrict movement.

Changing Frequency

For bladder incontinence, the diapers can comfortably be changed after 2 to 3 hours. However, it may need to be quicker if there is a heavier flow. In case of bowel incontinence, the diapers should be changed immediately, without delay. Although there are improved waistbands that prevent spillage, it is inadvisable to keep them on for longer periods of time.

Adult Diaper Industry

With the increase in market demands, the adult diaper industry has grown at a rapid pace. The current industry is more than $25 billion. The industry has shown steady growth between 10 to 12% every year.

In Conclusion

With more elderly people being admitted with incontinence issues, the demand for adult diapers has increased. Although such products have been available for a few decades, the demands have seen a steady increase over the years.

Adult diapers help individuals with incontinence issues to go about their routine tasks, without having to deal with embarrassment or hassle. The diapers can last anywhere between 5 and 12 hours, with only a few changes being needed. The costs are also affordable. The pant style diapers are more convenient as compared to tape-style ones. However, one must make note of the manufacturing date, to ensure an economically viable product.