5-Step Guide to Managing Incontinence for Older Adults

For anyone dealing with incontinence, whether personally or as a caregiver, here’s something important to know right away: you are far from alone. Research shows that up to 45% of women and 34% of men over 60 report some degree of urinary incontinence.

The five steps below offer a clear, actionable path toward more confidence, dignity, and freedom in daily life.

Step 1: Understand the Types and Causes of Incontinence

Finding the right solution starts with understanding what's happening. Incontinence isn't a single condition — it comes in several forms, each with different causes and management strategies.

The most common types of incontinence in older adults include:

• Stress incontinence: leaks that happens when you cough, sneeze, laugh, or lift something heavy. It's often related to weakened pelvic floor muscles.
  
  

• Urge incontinence: a sudden, intense need to urinate followed by involuntary leaks. This is sometimes called "overactive bladder."
  
  

• Overflow incontinence: when the bladder doesn't empty completely, leading to frequent or constant dribbling.
  
  

• Functional incontinence: when a physical or cognitive condition (such as arthritis or dementia) makes it difficult to reach the bathroom in time.

Many people experience a combination of these types. Understanding the specific situation is the first step toward finding what works.

Step 2: Talk to a Healthcare Provider

One of the most powerful steps is having an honest conversation with your doctor or a specialist. It can feel uncomfortable to bring up — and according to the National Association for Continence, most people wait seven years before seeing a doctor about bladder leaks. But the sooner the conversation happens, the closer solutions become. Healthcare providers hear about incontinence regularly — it's a routine part of their practice, and they are ready to help.

Here are a few tips to make the conversation easier:

• Keep a symptom diary. For a week or two before your appointment, note when leaks happen, how much fluid you drink, and any triggers you notice. This gives your provider valuable information. To make it easier, download our free Bladder and Bowel Diary PDF. This user-friendly tool helps you track your way to better health with space to record symptoms, fluid intake, and timing, helping you spot trends and have a more informed conversation at your appointment.
  
  

• Prepare your questions. Write down anything you want to ask — whether it's about treatment options, product recommendations, or lifestyle changes.
  
  

• Be open about the impact. Let your provider know how incontinence affects your daily life, sleep, social activities, or emotional well-being. This helps them understand the full picture.

Incontinence can be treatable with a personalized approach — from pelvic floor exercises and bladder training to medications and, in some cases, minimally invasive procedures. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You deserve to feel your best.

Step 3: Choose the Right Incontinence Products

High-performance incontinence products can make an enormous difference improving confidence and quality of life, especially for those managing HBL (heavy bladder leaks). But with so many options available, it helps to know what to look for.

Here's a quick overview of the main product categories:

• Tab-style adult diapers: These offer maximum absorbency and a secure fit with adjustable tabs. NorthShore MegaMax® 12-Hour Overnight HBL Diaper Style Briefs provide up to 12 hours of leak-free protection*, making them ideal for overnight use or extended wear.
  
  

• Pull-up style underwear: Designed to look and feel like regular underwear, these are great for active adults who value discretion. NorthShore GoSupreme® 8-Hour Overnight HBL Pull-Up Underwear fit with high-performance absorbency for up to 8 hours*.
  
  

• Booster pads: Products like NorthShore EternaDry® booster pads can be placed inside a brief or underwear to add extra absorbency — a smart option for overnight use or long stretches without a restroom.
  
  

• Bed pads: Washable or disposable bed pads protect your furniture and mattress and can be used as changing pads for adults, helping to make nighttime management easier and less stressful.

*An immediate change is required after a bowel movement.

Not sure where to start? NorthShore offers free samples (just pay for shipping) so different products can be tried to find the right fit before committing. It's a simple, no-pressure way to discover what works best.

Step 4: Build Daily Routines for Confidence

Building daily habits that reduce anxiety and support a sense of control for those managing incontinence. Small, consistent routines can make a big difference.

Timed voiding and bladder training. Rather than waiting for the urge to strike, scheduling bathroom visits every two to three hours is a helpful strategy. Over time, the intervals can gradually be extended as the bladder adjusts. This technique, called bladder training, helps many people regain a sense of predictability and control.

Smart hydration. It might seem logical to drink less to reduce leaks, but restricting fluids can actually irritate the bladder and lead to other health issues. Instead, focus on timing — sipping water steadily throughout the day and reducing intake in the evening to minimize nighttime disruptions.

Skin care. Prolonged moisture exposure can cause irritation and discomfort. A simple skin care routine, such as gentle cleansing and using high-absorbency products that wick moisture away from the skin, helps maintain comfort and health.

Pack a discreet "go bag." Having a small bag with a change of products, wipes, disposal bags, can ease anxiety about outings. Being prepared makes it much easier to say "yes" to social events, errands, and activities.

Step 5: Surround Yourself with Support

Incontinence can feel isolating, but it doesn't have to be. Building a support system (whether through family, friends, caregivers, or a wider community) can make a meaningful difference in day-to-day well-being.

Talking to loved ones. Sharing what's happening with trusted family members or friends can reduce stigma and increase understanding. Many people are surprised by how supportive loved ones are once the conversation begins.

Tips for caregivers. When supporting someone with incontinence, approaching the topic with patience, respect, and dignity is essential. Focus on practical help — like assisting with product changes or building routines together — and always prioritize the person's comfort and autonomy.

Read and share real stories. The NorthShore Hero Club™ is a place where real customers share what life with incontinence really looks like — triumphs, challenges, and everything in between. Different experiences and perspectives can be explored, and personal stories can be shared when ready. It's a simple reminder that no one is alone in this.

Prioritize emotional well-being. Staying active, social, and engaged is one of the best things anyone can do for mental health. Incontinence does not have to shrink a person's world. With the right tools and support, continuing to do the things that bring joy is absolutely possible.

Reach out to a NorthShore Customer Care Expert. NorthShore's Care Experts are real people ready to listen, answer questions, and help find what works best. Whether the need is advice, reassurance, or just someone to talk to, contact is available by call, text, chat, or email — whatever feels easiest. NorthShore has heard it all and is here to help.

Putting It All Together

Managing incontinence as an older adult comes down to five empowering steps: understand your condition, talk to a healthcare provider, choose the right products, build supportive daily routines, and lean on your community. None of these steps requires perfection, just a willingness to take the next one.

Incontinence does not have to define your life or limit your freedom. With the right knowledge, premium products, and a strong support system, confidence and dignity are absolutely within reach.

Ready to take the next step? Request your NorthShore samples today, explore the full product line, or call our Care Experts at 800-563-0161 for personalized guidance. Your comfort, confidence, and dignity are always worth it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best type of incontinence product for older adults?

A: The best product depends on your specific needs. Tab-style adult diapers like NorthShore MegaMax offer maximum absorbency for overnight or heavy protection. Pull-up style underwear like GoSupreme is ideal for active adults who want a discreet, underwear-like fit.

Q: How do I know if I need to see a doctor about incontinence?

A: If incontinence is affecting your daily life, sleep, social activities, or emotional well-being, it's worth talking to a healthcare provider. Even occasional leaks deserve attention, as many causes are treatable with the right approach.

Q: Where can I get free incontinence product samples?

A: NorthShore offers free product samples (just pay for shipping) so you can try before you buy. Visit the NorthShore website or call us at 800-563-0161 to request samples tailored to your needs. It's a simple, no-pressure way to find the right fit.