Key Takeaways:

• Elderly bedwetting is often linked to medical conditions like diabetes, urinary tract infections, and prostate issues.

• Prescription medications for unrelated health issues might contribute to nighttime incontinence. Consult with your physician to identify which ones could be causing problems.

• Some natural supplements can increase urination and wetting accidents.

• Simple coping strategies like bladder training exercises and dietary adjustments can make a big difference.

• Waterproof mattress protector pads for bedwetting make your bed more comfortable, protect your mattress from urine leaks, and make cleanup fast-and-easy when there’s an accident.

Common Triggers for Senior Incontinence

Incontinence in the elderly can result from a complex interplay of factors. Aging naturally brings changes to the body, such as decreased bladder capacity and a decline in the efficiency of the kidneys at night. And both can lead to increased urine production while sleeping, which in turn can cause bedwetting.

When you understand the triggers, you’re well on your way to reducing wetting incidents.

Medical Conditions that Can Cause Bedwetting

These are the most common triggers for incontinence in the elderly:

• Diabetes can cause an increase in urine production, which overwhelms the bladder’s capacity.

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can irritate the bladder, leading to sudden urges to urinate that can’t always be controlled.

• Prostate enlargement in men can obstruct the flow of urine, causing overflow incontinence, where the bladder doesn’t empty completely and then leaks later.

• Neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease or the aftermath of a stroke can affect the signals between the brain and the bladder, leading to unexpected leakage.

• Sleep apnea, a condition where breathing stops intermittently during sleep, can also contribute to nighttime bedwetting.

Lifestyle Factors Influencing Bladder Health

Lifestyle choices can significantly influence bladder health and function, and some simple changes can sometimes make a big difference.

• Fluid intake is a key factor. Too much liquid, especially in the evening, can lead to an overfull bladder during the night. Conversely, not drinking enough can lead to concentrated urine that irritates the bladder lining.

• Caffeine and alcohol are diuretics, which means they increase urine production and can exacerbate bedwetting.

• Spicy foods, artificial sweeteners, and acidic fruits can also irritate the bladder and should be consumed in moderation.

• Weight management is another aspect to consider. Excess weight can place additional pressure on the bladder, leading to stress incontinence where urine leaks during activities like coughing or laughing.

Prescription Medications

Most prescription medications have at least a few side effects, including increased urine production or relaxed bladder muscles. And both side effects can lead to incontinence.

Some common culprits are blood pressure medications, muscle relaxants, sedatives, and some heart medications.

If you or a loved one is experiencing bedwetting, review your medications with your doctor to determine see if any or all may be contributing to the problem.

Natural Supplements Can Have Negative Side Effects

While natural supplements are often seen as a gentler alternative compared to prescription medications, they are not without their own potential side effects. Some supplements can increase urine output and frequency of urination. Watch out for natural ingredients with diuretic properties like dandelion extract, horsetail, and hawthorn.

Waterproof Mattress Protectors for Bedwetting

Consider a waterproof mattress protector for bedwetting. They protect mattresses from urine leaks, which can lead to bacteria and mold overgrowth. And they make cleanup fast-and-easy when there’s an accident.

One of our favorites is NATUREPEDIC. They just won the Good Housekeeping Top Choice 2024 Award for Best Organic Waterproof Mattress Protector for Bedwetting. It’s 100% waterproof. And the organic cotton fibers make it breathable and cooling. It’s a top choice for elderly people with sensitive skin.

The NATUREPEDIC organic waterproof mattress protector has earned an incredible 4.9-star rating from more than 930 verified customers.

Home Solutions and Natural Remedies

Simple home solutions and natural remedies can sometimes significantly improve the situation. These remedies are focused on strengthening the bladder, improving its control, and reducing the factors that lead to incontinence.

Hydration Management

Try to drink plenty of fluids during the day, particularly water, but start reducing the amount as evening approaches. This doesn’t mean cutting off fluids completely but rather being mindful of not overloading the bladder before bedtime.

• Drink the majority of your daily water intake before the late afternoon.

• Limit beverages like coffee, tea, and alcohol, especially in the hours leading up to sleep.

• Encourage small sips of water if thirsty during the evening, rather than full glasses.

Dietary Adjustments that Support Bladder Health

Certain foods can irritate the bladder and should be consumed in moderation. Watch out for spicy foods, acidic foods like citrus fruits and juices, caffeinated beverages, carbonated beverages, and artificial sweeteners. It’s best to avoid diet sodas!

Instead, focus on bladder-friendly foods like bananas, apples, grains, foods rich in fiber, and lean proteins.

And use natural herbs to add flavor to your foods.

Physical Exercises for Pelvic Floor Strengthening

Pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegel exercises, are designed to strengthen the muscles that support the bladder, uterus, and bowels. Strengthening these muscles can help you hold urine in the bladder, reducing the risk of bedwetting.

Kegel exercises for men and Kegel exercises for women are slightly different. Click on the links for clear instructions, so you’ll get the most benefit.

These exercises can be done anywhere, at any time, and the more consistently you do them, the better the results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the main causes of elderly bedwetting?

Elderly bedwetting, or nocturnal enuresis, can be caused by a variety of factors, including urinary tract infections, diabetes, prostate enlargement in men, neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, or the side effects of medications. It’s also worth noting that the natural aging process can lead to changes in bladder function and an increased likelihood of incontinence.

2. Can changes in diet improve senior incontinence?

Yes, dietary adjustments can play a significant role in managing senior incontinence. Foods and drinks that irritate the bladder, such as caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and acidic fruits, should be consumed in moderation. Incorporating bladder-friendly foods like bananas, apples, grains, and lean proteins can help reduce irritation and support overall bladder health.

3. Should an older person use organic and hypoallergenic bedding?

While organic and hypoallergenic bedding won’t directly prevent bedwetting, they can contribute to a healthier sleep environment, especially for elder people who tend to have sensitive skin. These types of bedding protect the mattress from urine seepage and make clean up fast and easy when there’s an accident.