Incontinence in a parent, grandparent or spouse has a significant emotional impact on a caregiver's life, according to a survey released today by Caring.com and SCA, the makers of TENA® (www.tena.us). The survey reveals that while seventy percent report incontinence as an ongoing issue with their loved ones, caregivers are largely uncertain how to help make the situation better, or even talk about it. In fact, one in three prefer to avoid the conversation altogether.
The research from Caring.com, a leading online destination for people caring for aging relatives, and TENA®, the worldwide leader in the management of bladder protection, found incontinence to be a widespread issue among adults caring for aging loved ones. More than 25 million adults are affected by incontinence in the United States today, a number that is projected to increase as the baby boomer population ages.
"Sixty-five percent of Caring.com members are dealing with incontinence in a parent, grandparent or spouse. It's a sensitive subject for both the caregiver and the person they're caring for, ranking among the most difficult conversations people caring for aging parents are faced with, such as taking away the car keys and discussing finances," said Andy Cohen, co-founder and CEO, Caring.com. "Caring.com can help make discussions about adult incontinence less stressful by knowing what not to say and providing supportive alternatives on how to talk to your loved one."
Managing a Loved One's Incontinence Takes an Emotional Toll
There is unexpected stress associated with incontinence issues and often the emotional aspect is just as hard as, or sometimes worse than, the physical aspects of caring for a loved one. The study found that incontinence can have a negative effect on a caregiver's emotional wellbeing and influence home care and nursing home decisions:
- 42% report dealing with their loved one's incontinence sometimes leads to depression;
- 32% find it emotionally difficult to change their loved one's incontinence products;
- 27% report incontinence has a negative impact on the relationship they have with their loved one;
- 31% are unable to go on vacation because of their loved one's incontinence issues; and
- 18% have considered moving, or have moved their parent to a care facility or nursing home because of incontinence.
Caregivers Try to Manage the Symptoms, but for Most It's Not Working
People caring for aging relatives have tried a variety of techniques to try to manage the physical aspects of their loved one's incontinence: