Being Smart About Incontinence

Posted by Jeanne Lowry on July 29, 2014 under BladderMatters | Be the First to Comment

Living with incontinence can be inconvenient, and can even have the potential for embarrassment. But! With the right knowledge, supplies and attitude, everything runs more smoothly and the feeling of any embarrassment becomes a thing of the past. Those who are incontinent can take action so that life can be lived on their terms.

Finding the cause:
Of course, many times, just because the cause of incontinence is known, that doesn’t mean that there’s a cure. But knowing the reason for one’s incontinence is helpful, even if only in a mental capacity. It can also help with determining what type of protection is necessary. Once the type is known, one may be able to predict the level of protection needed. A list of the types of incontinence can be found here. Getting educated: ✓

Leaks, crinkles and unsightly lines:
Most adult diaper leaks are caused by one of three things: the size is too large, a proper leg seal hasn’t been established, or the wrong type of insert has been placed in the diaper. You can find more information about these leaks and how to prevent them here. The crinkle-factor can be minimized by purchasing the right fit, and purchasing items with the words “cloth-like outer fabric,” like it says on these Prevail Per-Fit Adult Protective Underwear. The less plastic on the outside of the diaper, the less likely the wearer is to hear anything while moving. And the cloth outer fabric diapers are just as absorbent and leak-proof as plastic backed diapers. Panty lines can be minimized by wearing more organic fabrics, and experimenting with different types of diapers. Mess and fuss: ✓

Buying adult diapers and accessories:
Many people do not enjoy the stigma that comes with purchasing adult diapers in person, whether or not they are for themselves. Ease that concern by getting all needed supplies shipped directly to your home in a discreet box. This solution is not only subtle, it’s convenient. This is a service TotalHomeCareSupplies.com offers for all customers, and all orders over $40 receive free shipping. Plus, be sure to check out our promotions page for any coupons we currently offer. Purchasing: ✓

It’s easy to be fully prepared when presented with all the facts. When you’re informed and equipped, a full life is still easily in reach.

My Own Experiences as a Temporary Caregiver

Posted by Jeanne Lowry on July 28, 2014 under Caregiver Corner | Be the First to Comment

Hello there! My name’s Jeanne and I recently started at TotalHomeCareSupplies. I thought a good way to introduce myself would be to tell about when I was a temporary caregiver.

A few years ago, my mom and I visited my grandfather, who lived on his own in a two bedroom apartment in a different state than us. On this particular visit, upon arrival, we found him on the floor, alert and unhurt, but confused. He’d fallen, and a visit to the doctor told us he had pneumonia. He had to be checked into the hospital for a few days, and during this ordeal, decided a move to a nursing home might be prudent (he had tried living with my parents before, but found the altitude did not suit him).

After my grandfather checked out of the hospital, my mom needed to head back to work. My job at the time was more flexible, so I stayed to help him finish getting over the pneumonia, find him an acceptable nursing home and move him in.

We looked at three homes, and the last one had space for my grandfather and was acceptable to him. He would be able to move in after a week. In the meantime, I had to pack his apartment, get him to all his doctor appointments, work as much as possible at his friend’s houses or McDonald’s (since I needed the Internet, and he didn’t have a connection) and keep us both fed and relatively happy. And I had to do all this without a car, since the rental car was due back at the airport.

Somehow I pulled it off. I didn’t do it alone. His church friends helped him move, the town shuttle took us to appointments and the pharmacy, and his friends would stay with my grandfather when I needed to work. Still, it was exhausting. And there were upsetting things every day: new doctor appointments that meant I couldn’t spend those two hours working instead, my grandfather’s refusal to take recommended vitamins or just not getting as much done in one day as I would have liked. But in the end, his pneumonia cleared up and we moved him in. He was fairly happy there and we visited often.

My grandfather died, likely of pneumonia, about a year and a half later. It was sad, but I feel confident he was ready to go. Although those two weeks caring for him were stressful, I’m glad I was able to spend that time with him. I learned a lot, not only about him, but about myself.

Working at TotalHomeCareSupplies.com has reminded me of these experiences, and they give me a healthy respect for those caregivers that are not at all temporary. I’m looking forward to helping those that help others!

Prevail Per-Fit for Women and Men

Posted by Jeanne Lowry on July 24, 2014 under BladderMatters | Be the First to Comment

Prevail is announcing something new in the world of adult diapers. They know that those individuals who wear protective underwear would ideally wear something that’s as close to possible as a regular pair of underpants. That’s why they’re now offering their Per-Fit products, for women and men.

These underwear are gender specific – the women’s come in a lovely light lavender color, while the men’s come in white with classic grey lines on the band. And both are created from a cloth-like material, meaning they look and feel closer to regular underwear.

Other great features of these underpants include Odor Guard® protection, which means each style has targeted absorbency zones that will whisk moisture from the skin before locking it away and neutralizing any ammonia odor.

Customers will also find these adult pull-ups more breathable. Between the specifically ventilated and breathable waist area and the higher cut on the legs, air is more able to freely migrate on the wearer.

Both the protective underwear for the women and the men are available in medium, large and extra large. Each product page provides a sizing chart so our customers can make informed decisions on what will be the best fit for them.

For those experiencing LOBC (loss of bladder control), many may find that their unique shape is better served with a pair of Per-Fit protective underwear.

At TotalHomeCareSupplies.com, shipping is completely free on all orders over $40. Orders come packaged in discreet, unmarked boxes for customer security.

Staying Cool in the Summer

Posted by Elizabeth Hill on June 26, 2014 under BladderMatters | Read the First Comment

It is officially the first week of summer – and things are heating up in most parts of the country. It’s hard enough to stay cool in the summer and even harder when wearing an adult diaper for incontinence. Since staying inside where it is air-conditioned is not always an option – we have a few tips and guidelines to help beat the heat.

Keep the air moving. Today’s new adult diapers are made of fabric-like material – no more plastic-backed diapers that trap the heat. Breathable briefs are typically thinner and allow for air circulation. A popular option is the Prevail Extra Adult Pull-Up that includes ventilated panels that help prevent heat build-up.
Powder up. If you don’t have any skin issues – baby powder or a corn starch-type powder can help keep you feeling cool when temperatures are rising. If using a diaper with side tape tabs – be sure to not get any powder on these since it might prevent them from sticking.
Keep it clean. Change your adult diaper more often in the summer and be sure to keep all areas clean. Moisture plus warmer temperatures can increase the chance of skin irritation. Be sure to carry extra disposable adult wipes during summer travels so that you are always prepared.
Air it out. If time and the situation allows – take a little break between diaper changes and allow the area to get some air or wear cotton underpants for an hour or two.
Dress appropriately. Cotton skirts and dresses for women and shorts for men are your best bets during the summer. Light-colored and loose fitting clothing is a great choice for beating the heat. Stay away from dark colors and synthetic (especially polyester) materials – save those for the winter months.
Drink up. Becoming dehydrated is the last thing that you want. Drinking plenty of water will keep your body hydrated and better able to regulate your temperature. Many fruits and vegetables are comprised of over 90% water – so take advantage of summer produce to help with hydration.

Tips for Preventing Adult Diaper Rash

Posted by Chris Moynihan on April 18, 2014 under BladderMatters | Be the First to Comment

What causes adult diaper rash?

Adult diaper rash can occur for a variety of reasons, but tends to develop when skin is exposed to prolonged wetness and skin pH is increased by frequent contact with urine and stool. The outermost layer of the skin begins to break down, causing redness, rash and irritation. Diaper rash can result from diarrhea, frequent stools, overtight diapers, overexposure to ammonia, or allergic reactions to harsh chemicals.

Here are some tips to prevent diaper rash:

Change your diaper more often than you normally do.
Occasionally air dry during a diaper change and leave the diaper off for a while, if you can.
Use unscented washcloths or wipes to clean during a diaper change. Perfumes can be harsh on sensitive skin.
Using the correct size of adult diaper. (Click here for an adult diaper sizing guide)
The use of an incontinence cream and wash has been seen to reduce diaper rash.

Changing Adult Diapers Video

Posted by Chris Moynihan on April 17, 2014 under BladderMatters | Be the First to Comment

Great video for how to change an adult in a diaper.

Prevail did it again with a great video for caregivers on how to change an adult diaper. For the complete list of prevail incontinence products included diapers, pull-ups, disposable underwear and wipes, always try TotalHomeCareSupplies.com/Prevail

Care More. Spend Less.

6 Tips for Changing an Adult Diaper

Posted by Chris Moynihan on under Caregiver Corner | Be the First to Comment

We here at TotalHomeCareSupplies.com realize that changing an adult diaper, regardless of if you are wearing the diaper or you are the caregiver of someone with incontinence, is not always an easy task.

Adult Diaper Changing in 6 Steps

Here is a link to 6 simple steps for changing an adult disposable diaper.

Determine how far away from your nearest flat surface you are to changing that diaper.
Select the type of change you’ll feel confident with completing the change in.
Try to contemplate the privacy issues that may result in the diaper-change.
Decide which one best fits your style of diaper, and whichever one makes you feel the least embarrassed to have completed.
Complete that style of diaper-change that had been chosen for you or your loved one, dependent on the type of diaper and amount of comfort you’ve chosen.
Clean up.

Looking for Free Adult Diaper Samples

Looking for the right size, purchase a Prevail Adult Diaper Sample. 2 Pack samples are available for a $3.00 purchase. However they include a $9.00 coupon off your next order. That sounds like free adult diapers to me.

Click here to view all samples available from Prevail by First Quality.

For the complete article, follow the link below.

http://www.wikihow.com/Change-a-Disposable-Adult-Diaper

How To Choose The Right Size Baby Diaper

Posted by Brooke Phillips on April 10, 2014 under Everything Baby | 2 Comments to Read

What Size Baby Diapers Should I Use?

Choosing the right size diaper for your baby can be confusing. Since babies grow at different rates and have different builds, diapers are sized by weight, not age. For most diaper sizes, the weights overlap. If your baby’s weight is in-between sizes, how do you decide which size is better? For example, size 1 baby diapers fit babies 8-14lbs, while size 2 diapers are for babies 12-18lbs. If your baby weighs 12lbs, what size diaper should you use?

If you’re not sure, sample a diaper size to make sure the diaper has a snug fit around your baby’s leg. No matter how quickly a diaper absorbs, if there’s a gap where liquid can escape, it will. If you’re experiencing a lot of leaks, you may need to go up or back down a diaper size. Red marks can indicate a diaper size that’s being outgrown, while gaps indicate a diaper size that’s still too large. Incorrect size is the most common reason for leaks and blowouts.

How Many Baby Diapers Do I Need?

New parents can expect to change more than a thousand diapers just in their baby’s first year. On average, most young babies go through 10 to 12 diapers a day. However, every baby is different. Some babies may need more changes, while others don’t pee or poop as frequently. For the first few weeks, breastfed babies often have a bowel movement after every feeding, while most formula-fed babies have a bowel movement at least once a day. In your baby’s first month, you should expect a minimum of six diaper changes a day (more is fine). If your baby is peeing fewer than six times a day in the first month, he or she may not be getting enough milk.

After the first month, a baby’s bowel movements often slow down. If your breastfed baby goes several days without having a bowel movement and shows no signs of being in pain, this is normally nothing to worry about. Breast milk is rich in all the vitamins and minerals your baby needs, and at times may be completely absorbed and produce very little waste. Bowel movements often slow down for formula-fed babies after the first month as well, and most formula-fed babies have around one bowel movement a day. However, formula is more likely to cause constipation than breast milk. If your formula-fed baby goes several days without a bowel movement, contact your pediatrician.

Baby Diaper Samples

To sample a diaper size, find a retailer who offers samples before making a purchase. TotalHomeCareBaby offers Cuties Baby Diaper samples for sizes 1 through 6. Each baby diaper sample pack includes 2 baby diapers and a $9 coupon off your next order.

What To Eat While Breastfeeding

Posted by Brooke Phillips on under Everything Baby | Be the First to Comment

Best Breastfeeding Foods

There’s a reason breast milk is the perfect food for your baby: breast milk contains just the right amount of carbohydrates, protein, fat, vitamins and minerals that your baby needs to grow and thrive. Although there are no special foods that will help your body create more milk, the foods you eat while breastfeeding provide all the nutrients that nourish your growing baby. Lactating parents should aim for a healthy, balanced diet that gives your body everything it needs to create rich, quality breast milk for your child.

This means that for the most part, you can continue to eat and enjoy the same foods you ate before pregnancy. There are no foods you need to avoid unless they bother your baby. Nutritious foods for your body while breastfeeding include lean proteins, dairy products, fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grain breads and cereals.

A lactating parent should aim to drink at least 12 8-ounce glasses of caffeine-free fluid daily. One popular technique is to drink a glass every time you nurse. Doctors strongly recommend avoiding alcohol, especially in large amounts, and limiting the amount of caffeine and sugary drinks you consume. A moderate amount of caffeine (no more than 2-3 cups of coffee daily) will not bother most breastfed babies. Approximately 1% of the caffeine consumed by the nursing parent will pass through your breast milk to the child. Too much caffeine may make it harder for your baby to sleep or cause fussiness.

Recommended: Breastfeeding and BPA (Bisphenol A)

How Do Foods Affect Breastmilk?

Research shows that your breast milk is only affected slightly by the food you eat. In most cases, your baby enjoys the different flavors that come from your diet. If your baby is sensitive to certain foods, the following signs may appear anywhere from a few minutes up to 24 hours after a feeding:

Fussiness during or after feedings
Waking up in discomfort
Wheezing or coughing
Inconsolable crying after feeding

These signs do not mean that your baby is allergic to your milk, only to something that you are eating. If you cut back on the food that is bothering your baby, or remove it from your diet, the problem usually goes away on its own.

More serious symptoms in your baby after breastfeeding may include vomiting, diarrhea, green stools with mucus and/or blood in the stool, rash or hives. Talk to your doctor right away if you notice these symptoms. If your baby ever has difficulty breathing, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Vegan Parents

A lactating parent’s body requires up to 500 more calories a day to create breast milk. If you follow a diet without any forms of animal protein, or eat very little meat or animal protein, you or your baby may not get enough vitamin B12 while breastfeeding. Your doctor may recommend taking vitamin B12 supplements during this time to protect your and your baby’s health. Signs of low B12 in your baby can include loss of appetite, slow motor development, weak muscles and vomiting. If you are a vegan parent, it is important that you talk to your doctors about your vitamin B12 needs.

For more information on breastfeeding, visit the TotalHomeCare Resources Blog, Womenshealth.gov, HealthyChildren.org and La Leche League.

Breastfeeding and BPA (Bisphenol A)

Posted by Brooke Phillips on under Everything Baby | Read the First Comment

BPA (Bisphenol A) is a chemical additive in many food and liquid containers that helps to harden plastics, keep bacteria from contaminating foods, and prevent cans from rusting. BPA can be found in many hard plastic items, including baby bottles, water bottles, food containers and other storage containers. It can also be found in the lining inside metal containers that come into contact with foods or beverages, such as food cans and bottle tops.

However, there are concerns over the possible harmful effects that ingesting BPA might have on humans, especially on infants and children. There are several studies underway to determine what levels of BPA exposure may be harmful. In the meantime, concerned parents can reduce their babies’ exposure to BPA by taking the following steps:

Use a BPA-free breast pump, and make sure all parts that come into contact with breast milk are BPA-free
Use BPA-free plastic baby bottles
Avoid clear plastic baby bottles or containers imprinted with recycling number 7 and “PC”
Use bottles made of opaque plastic, or look for containers imprinted with recycling numbers 2 or 5
If possible, breastfeed instead of using formula, which is frequently packaged in metal cans

Heat may cause the release of BPA from plastic. If you are concerned that the bottles or containers you use are made with BPA, consider the following precautions:

Do not boil plastic bottles or containers
Do not heat plastic bottles or containers in the microwave
Do not wash plastic bottles or containers made with BPA in the dishwasher

BPA-Free Breastfeeding Products

TotalHomeCare is committed to the health of all parents and babies, which is why we carry breastfeeding products that are 100% BPA-free. Ameda has been a hospital-trusted brand for more than 70 years, and the Ameda Purely Yours Double Electric Breast Pump Kit is 100% BPA-free. All accessories that come into contact with breast milk or your baby are also 100% BPA-free, including CustomFit Breast Flanges, Store’N Pour Breast Milk Storage bags and Breast Milk Storage Bottles. In addition, Ameda’s Dual HygieniKit collection system is the only milk collection system approved by the FDA to protect against cross contamination. Click here to see all BPA-free breastfeeding supplies at TotalHomeCareBaby.