Tag Archives: incontinence products

Adult Briefs with a Better Fit

Posted by Jeanne Lowry on October 29, 2015 under BladderMatters | Be the First to Comment

One of the reasons that adult briefs leak is that they don’t fit well. But what can a person do if they’re between sizes, or if they’re just more active than their brief will allow?

We recommend trying Prevail’s Stretch Fit. The main difference in these briefs from others in the Prevail product line are the tabs. The tabs stretch, creating the perfect brief for individuals who find themselves between sizes. Stretchy side panels are easy to grab, pull and attach for an adjustable fit that is secure and comfortable. Additionally, these tabs are the Easy-Lock Fastener^® (ELF^®) type – they grip and hold without being sticky. The entire outer cover is a refasten zone, allowing for multiple tab refastening for improved fit, accurate sizing and cost savings through reduced waste.

These briefs also have many of the features that make Prevail briefs both convenient to use and trustworthy. They have a simple design on the front of the brief that discreetly lets the user or the caregiver know what size is of the brief. The Skin Smart^® Fabric on the inside of the brief is hypoallergenic and contains aloe, chamomile and vitamin E for skin wellness. Lastly, the cloth-like outer fabric on the outside of the brief means better air flow for the wearer, and makes the brief less likely to rustle when the wearer is moving.

Please keep in mind that Prevail is in the middle of a packaging change, and so your briefs may or may not arrive looking just like the package shown here. But please be assured that the product on the inside is the same quality as always!

Seniors and the Weather

Posted by Jeanne Lowry on December 31, 2014 under Caregiver Corner | Be the First to Comment

Extreme weather can be tougher on seniors than the rest of the population. When it’s dry, their skin becomes very dry. When it’s wet, driving in those conditions can become even more dangerous due to slower reaction times and decreased vision. With less fat than younger people, the cold can be much more uncomfortable, if not unsafe. And the heat can make life nearly unbearable and it can also be hazardous.

2014 has been a rough year weather-wise. The long California drought (which, despite recent rainfall, is not over – it will take about three years of regular rainfall to get the state back to “normal” conditions), the cold winter that started the year off and this was also the hottest year on record.

The ideal way to deal with weather and your senior are just keeping them cooler or warmer than you’d like to be, based on the environment. If it’s winter and you’re cold, your senior is likely colder. If it’s sweater weather outside, be sure to grab a coat for them before heading out for a walk. If it’s hot outside, maybe forgo the neighborhood stroll altogether. In both of these cases, a drive to the mall for some exercise can be a great alternative. Cool in the summer and hot in the winter – and always new products to look at!

Don’t forget about other weather-related hazards like ice on the sidewalks and parking lots. Extremely bright sunlight can also be dangerous, so be sure they have some nice big shades! Diaper rash can also be a problem for those seniors using them – sweat in the summertime (or even in over-heated rooms, which can often get very dry) can lead to more diaper rash than normal. Be sure to use cloth-backed diapers to keep the air circulating. You can find more tips to staying cool in pull-ups in the summer in our blog post here.

What are you favorite tips for keeping seniors safe in all types of weather?

A Comprehensive Look at Prevail Products

Posted by Jeanne Lowry on November 12, 2014 under BladderMatters, Resources | Be the First to Comment

Prevail is a line of diaper and related products by First Quality. We here at TotalHomeCareSupplies.com are proud to offer a large amount of Prevail products. The variety of these products is impressive and includes adult briefs and diapers, bariatric products, youth briefs, baby diapers, protective underwear, adult pull-ups, underpads, liners, pads and wipes. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular and products that offer the best coverage and exclusive features.

Our most popular Prevail product is the Extra Adult Pull-Up. It is the perfect product for those that want the look and feel of underwear with great absorbency and protection. These pull-ups also feature Skin Smart™ Fabric, Odor Guard™ and a Stay-Dry strip. This product, and other Prevail items, can be ordered as a sample to find the perfect fit.

Another great and unique Prevail product are the Boxers for Men. These boxers are similar to regular pairs, but are absorbent and disposable. Perfect for those who miss the air-flow provided by boxers, these items feature a built-in pad designed for maximum absorbency.

Prevail’s Breezers are different because of their breathable, cloth-like outer fabric. More air-flow to the area is idea for keeping skin healthy and happy. And the Easy Lock Fastening Strips create a custom fit that conforms to your body.

One of the newer Prevail items are the Per-Fits for Men and Women. Each of these is specifically designed for each gender. The men’s have a printed waistband and male-specific dimensions that make for a more comfortable and discreet fit. The women’s has, of course, female-specific dimensions and a light lavender color.

Do you have a particular favorite Prevail product? Or is there a certain feature you’re looking for? Feel free to comment below.

How to Dispose of Incontinence Products

Posted by Jeanne Lowry on October 17, 2014 under BladderMatters | Be the First to Comment

Knowing how dispose of incontinence products is useful in your own home and when you’re out and about. Odor is a concern for both situations. And being discreet can be a thought when leaving the house for a few hours. So how can you solve these two issues and have good diaper etiquette?

Let’s start with inside the privacy of your own home. Many incontinence products, including those from Prevail, have odor control, but after a few days, the odor reducing components may start to break down. And taking out the trash everyday can be a pain. The best path is to get a diaper pail, like the ones made for children’s diapers, but larger. Having each incontinence product wrapped in its own plastic bubble helps immensely with odor. There are several companies that offer such products, including Akord.

On the go, it’s recommended that, along with extra incontinence items, you take a couple of disposable plastic bags. The type you receive your groceries in at the supermarket are not recommended. They can be easily ripped on the trip home from the store and even a small hole can release odor. Try the smallest garbage bags at the store and tie them shut with twisty-ties. These are often opaque and can be thrown away while out and about. Or if you’d rather not throw them in a foreign garbage can, you can always use regular plastic baggies that zip closed. These are generally see-through, but if you’re keeping your items in your purse, that won’t matter. If you’d prefer a scented bag, Heaven Scent makes perfumed bags specifically for incontinence product disposal.

With these tips, you should be able to eliminate odor issues and discreetly dispose of your diapers and pads. If you know of more tips to help solve these problems, please let us know in the comments!

Different Types of Care-es

Posted by Jeanne Lowry on September 16, 2014 under Caregiver Corner | Be the First to Comment

In a recent blog post, we highlighted the different types of caregivers out there. This time, we thought we’d talk about the people who need the care those caregivers provide.

Those with Intellectual Disabilities
Individuals out there with ID may be unable to properly care for either their basic needs or non-essential needs. They may need a live-in caregiver, a day caregiver or just specific help during certain tasks. Intellectual disabilities can vary from birth (such as some iterations of cerebral palsy) or happen because of an accident later in life.

Those with Physical Disabilities
Physical disabilities can make a surprising amount of activities more difficult. For instance, did you know that there are fifty pairs of muscles involved in chewing? Many physical difficulties can be overcome with the right equipment or physical therapy, but sometimes a caregiver does need to step in.

The Elderly
Many elderly individuals do just fine on their own for many years. But with old age, illness can often be close at hand and sometimes those illnesses can be more debilitating than they would be for a younger person. The elderly may need someone there who can help with basic needs (such as using the bathroom or help with incontinence products). Or someone who’s just there to make sure they’re safe (not leaving the stove on or wandering). Some caregivers of the elderly are more of a friend than a caregiver, someone to socialize with. Others may have to help with more intensive tasks, like lifting their caree out of bed.

All caregivers to these carees should be thanked for all they do. And the cares should be given the respect they deserve as individuals. Here’s a nod of thanks and respect to both.

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.

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.

Prevail Adult Washcloths for Incontinence Management

Posted by Brooke Phillips on November 21, 2013 under BladderMatters | Be the First to Comment

Prevail Adult Washcloths – FQ WW710

Thick, strong and soft, Prevail Adult Washcloths are designed to improve the quality of life for those managing incontinence. Prevail Adult Washcloths are enriched with Vitamin E and Aloe to moisturize sensitive skin and maintain skin health. Each washcloth measures 8″ x 12″, and is strong enough for durable jobs while gentle on sensitive skin. Single Hand Dispensing® ensures that a single unfolded wipe dispenses each and every time for added convenience, less waste, and reduced risk of cross-contamination.

Customers give Prevail Adult Washcloths 5 Stars. Prevail Washcloths are alcohol free, latex free and rinse free. One case includes 576 individual adult washcloths:

FQ WW710 12IN X 8IN 576/case $38.04

Count on reliable, fast, discreet shipping with Total Home Care Supplies – and shipping is completely free on all orders over $40! For more incontinence supplies, visit TotalHomeCareSupplies.com. First time shopping with us? Our website has been recognized for exceptional customer service with the 2013 Bizrate® Circle of Excellence Award. Read detailed store ratings and customer reviews here:

Total Home Care Supplies Customer Reviews

What Is Incontinence? Treatment Options to Cure Incontinence

Posted by Brooke Phillips on November 12, 2013 under BladderMatters | Be the First to Comment

Bladder Health Statistics

Urinary incontinence affects 25 million Americans
One out of every three people will experience loss of bladder control at some point
33 million people suffer from overactive bladder
There are more than 4 million doctor’s office visits each year for urinary tract infections (UTIs)
1 in 3 women over the age of 45 have stress urinary incontinence
1 in 2 women over the age of 65 have stress urinary incontinence
50% of men report leakage from stress urinary incontinence following prostate surgery
Pelvic organ prolapse affects 3.3 million women in the United States

What is Incontinence?

Incontinence is the loss of bladder and/or bowel control. The loss of control can be partial or complete, ranging anywhere from a slight dribble to a total void. Incontinence is often a symptom of other medical issues, although it can also be the result of certain medications. Incontinence does not discriminate; it affects young and old, men and women, people of all ages and from all backgrounds. Incontinence can be embarrassing to deal with, causing anxiety and distress to those who suffer from the condition.

By learning more about incontinence and your many treatment options, you can learn to effectively manage the symptoms and gain control of your life back.

Treatment Options

Some types of incontinence are temporary, while others may be permanent. In many cases, there are treatment options that can reduce – or sometimes cure – the symptoms. Treatment options fall into several categories:

Behavioral Techniques: These treatment options are the least invasive, and your doctor may start here before moving to more invasive options. Behavior techniques include bladder training, scheduled toiled trips, and fluid and diet management. Learn More.
Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is another non-invasive treatment option. These techniques include activities such as pelvic floor muscle exercises (Kegel exercises) and electrical stimulation. Learn More.
Medications: Prescription medications are sometimes used in conjunction with behavioral techniques. Some common incontinence medications include anticholinergics (for overactive bladder), imipramine (for urge and stress incontinence), duloxetine (for stress incontinence) and low-dose topical estrogen. Learn More.
Medical Devices: There are several medical devices approved to help treat incontinence in women. Two such devices are the urethral insert, which acts as a plug against leakage, and the pessary, which helps hold up a prolapsed bladder or uterus. Learn More.
Interventional Therapies: These treatment options are more invasive, requiring injections or implantations. Interventional therapies may include bulking material injections, Botox injections, or a nerve stimulator implant. Learn More.
Surgery: If other therapies aren’t working, you may be a candidate for a surgery option. Some common incontinence surgery procedures include a sling procedure (pelvic mesh), bladder neck suspension, and artificial urinary sphincter implantation. Learn More.

Incontinence Products

There are many products available to help contain urine and feces, protect tender skin, and individuals manage their symptoms and gain control over their lives. Your doctor may recommend some products, while others may give you the added comfort and security you need. Visit our Bladder Matters Blog to learn more about the types of incontinence products we offer.

To see the different brands of incontinence supplies we offer, visit the Total Home Care Supplies Web Store.