Handle incontinence first with routine, consistent toileting, then diapers, then catheters.

Reward the incontinent person for eliminating at the right time.

Set a watch or beeper to sound at timed intervals. Place clean bedpans or bedside commodes where they can be seen easily.

Install a higher toilet seat, possibly with armrests. Install grab bars in the bathroom.

Jogging suits have no buttons or fasteners. Clothing that fastens in the back with Velcro may be suitable for people who are confined to bed.

Plastic bedpans are warmer to the touch than metal bedpans. Sprinkle a little talcum power on the bedpan to prevent it from sticking to the skin.

Ask the pharmacist for a cream for adult diaper rash.

Include high fibre foods and six cups of fluid daily. Check with the physician before substituting herbal teas for coffee, cocoa, cola or soft drinks. Herbal teas may interact badly with certain medications and illnesses.

Use washable cushions or slip covers and bed pads.

Caution: Unless the physician advises it, DO NOT treat incontinence by cutting back on fluids. If the body does not take in enough fluids, the urine will become more concentrated. This highly concentrated urine will irritate the bladder and lay the groundwork for bladder and urinary tract infections.

Ask whether samples or trial packages are available. You may be able to save by buying in bulk. Ask about home delivery.

Menstrual pads are useful for catching drips of urine. They may also cost less than pads sold specifically for incontinence.

Male drip collectors, called pocket pouches, are useful if a man leaks only small amounts of urine.

Source: "Incontinence: Silent No More,"Seniors Info Exchange, Fall 1999, Vol. 8, No. 1, Health Canada