Map your route
A long trip promises fun and excitement, but not for aging adults dealing with bladder woes. You can imagine the discomfort of leaking urine when there aren’t any stops along the route. In fact, you may get into trouble even when you stop for toilet breaks at every possible place. However, you shouldn’t let urinary incontinence keep you from experiencing the joy of a road tour. A little planning and preparation can help you make the most of it without stressing about leaks. Here are a few tips for seniors planning a long road trip despite dealing with incontinence.
The best piece of advice is to map your route. You will probably do it on a road trip anyway, but it is vital to check the restrooms along the way. Taking frequent toilet breaks is a good option as it can prevent leaks. Moreover, it enables you to stretch your legs and lower the risk of cramping due to long hours of sitting. While you can use Google Maps, marking stops on a paper map is better as it will help if the internet stops working.
Limit liquid intake
Limiting liquid intake before embarking on a long road trip makes sense. While hydration is essential, you may stay off for a few hours to prevent your bladder from losing control. Wearing a seat belt compounds the pressure, so you must manage your intake while on the road. You can drink water when you feel thirsty, but ditch colas and caffeine, no matter how much you want to have them.
Dress for the trip
Of course, you must choose a comfortable outfit for a long road trip. But look for one that is easy to change if you have a leakage on the way. Wearing some sort of incontinence protection is an even better idea. You can buy washable incontinence underwear to manage leaks without breaking the bank. These garments make you confident about staying safe even during the longest trips.
Pack a plan B bag
You can never be too sure about staying safe from a leak during a long road trip. Things may go wrong despite the best precautions, so you must be ready to deal with them. A plan B bag keeps you in a good place. You can pack a change of clothing and underwear, plastic bags to carry soiled clothing, skin wipes, soaps, sanitizer, and skin creams. Having the essentials at hand definitely makes you comfortable.
Talk to your doctor
Traveling with urinary incontinence can be easier if you connect with your doctor while planning a long road trip. They can prescribe medication to curb the symptoms of urge incontinenceand overactive bladder. You can also discuss the side effects of other medicines that may be causing leaks. See your doctor a few days before the departure date to get started with a therapeutic regimen well in time.
Seniors with urinary incontinence need not give up on the idea of a long road trip. Follow these actionable tips and precautions, and you are good to go!
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