Urinary Incontinence What happens in the body to cause bladder control problems? The body stores urine in the bladder. During urination, muscles in the bladder tighten to move urine into a tube called the urethra. At the same time, the muscles around the urethra relax and let the urine pass out of the body. When the muscles in and around the bladder don’t work the way they should, urine can leak. The loss of bladder control, or leaking urine, is...
Millions of Americans face the daily struggles of balancing family, career and home. As our population ages many of us are left to manage a loved one’s medical needs as well. Illness and injury are not something that most families consider until it is upon them. The unexpected brings with it many critical decisions that must be made during what can be a very emotional time. Many families live great distances apart, are struggling financially or are otherwise unable...
After an illness, injury, or surgery, you might work with a physical therapist to restore physical movement. Of course, all the work isn't done in the clinic: chances are, your therapist will give you instructions on how to do certain exercises and therapies at home. Your recovery rate and ability depend upon your commitment to following your therapist's instructions. Unfortunately, this isn't always easy though. Sometimes the demands of home and life distract us from sticking to the rehabilitation...
One of the challenges faced by people who are elderly or debilitated is getting up from or sitting down in a chair; using lift chairs can help them overcome this challenge. Lift chairs are like recliners, with the major difference being that lift chairs have an electrical mechanism to tilt the chair forward or backward. This makes it easier for the user to stand up or sit down. For lift chairs to function effectively, they should be well-maintained. Follow these tips...
Mobility limitations can come on suddenly, requiring loved ones to assist with the ordinary activities of life without warning. Crutches can become helpful when a person can bear some weight and needs to remain active, but cannot walk as they did before. It's critical to the healing process to find the right crutches for each person, and then to size them correctly for maximum comfort to encourage correct use to prevent delays in healing. Materials for Crutches Though wooden crutches exist,...
A person with limited mobility may not need a wheelchair, as they may still be able to get about some. A rollator walker is ideal for these individuals who can walk, but need a little help with balance and stability. This type of walker uses a sturdy metallic frame set atop three or four wheels and has a built-in seat, allowing the user to stop and sit as needed. Many models also come with attachments and accessories to make moving about easier and more...
The trapeze, also known as an overhead trapeze or medical trapeze, is versatile medical equipment that is essential for those with limited mobility due to old age, disability, or illness that confines them to a bed. It is recommended for bedridden patients to change positions and shift weight occasionally to prevent aches and bed sores. A medical trapeze makes this task much easier. However, trapezes come in many sizes and forms, so it is important to understand the benefits...
Dementia is a debilitating condition that can affect just about anyone. As dementia progress in a person, they begin to lose their ability to react quickly. Their memory declines, and they begin to have problems with communication, mobility, and recognizing things that were once familiar. People with the condition also begin to have incontinence problems. With the deterioration of the mind, they sometimes do not realize when their bladder or bowel is full, nor do they have complete control...
If your doctor prescribes medication for a long-term medical condition, it's important that you take your medication exactly as directed. Skipping a dose, waiting too long between doses, or taking your doses too frequently don’t allow the medication to work as intended and can all lead to serious medical issues. If you forget a dose, your symptoms might flare up, or your condition might take a turn for the worse. If you take a second dose too close to...