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In the last few months my mom has developed urinary incontinence. Everyone I spoke with about it (friends, family even a nurse I know) all said "well its part of the deal." Even the urologist did nothing. Hmmm really? Yes, I know in the later stages it says it is part of the deal but what about early and/or middle stages? So I decided to take my mother to another urologist. He said lets try medication and see if that works.

Guess what. It worked like a champ! No more accidents! Her self-esteem has risen, no more embarrassing moments with soaked pants. I'm so happy I decided to see if there was something that could be done instead of passively accepting it. Sure, this may not last forever but right now it is working and thats what counts--for her and all of us.

My message is please don't just passively accept everything to "its Alzheimer's." It took me 3 months to realize that I should be more assertive about it, even if it meant going over my dad's head and making the appointment myself (which I did) and taking off early from work to bring her myself (which I did).

Hope this helps others.

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Ok so what meds worked? mum just pees all over bathroom gets up at least 4 times a night to pee?
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My MIL is totally bedbound. She has had a catheter for 8 months and it has been a blessing for her and for me. Her skin is in fantastic condition. Not even a hint of bedsores. The cath keeps her dry and comfortable. It is honestly the very best thing we could have done. BTW, her alzheimers had progressed to the point that she has no control over bladder or bowel. Also forgot how to walk, use a fork, etc etc. All results of the disease progression
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Incontinence bothers many women in their later years especially if they have had several children. a visit to an OBGYN or urologist is a good first step having ruled out a UTI. You can buy washable protective pants which are a great money saver if the problem is not too bad or just use the pads which are not too comfortable.
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A few years ago, when Mama first began wearing Depends, I was staying with her at the hospital..accordingly my laundry got away from me and I found myself without underwear one morning. I just grabbed a pair of hers for the day til I could get back to do the laundry and I am being honest here....after my "preview" wearing of them, I fell in love with those suckers. I told Mama I hoped she didn't mind but I borrowed a pair of her nice lingerie as I needed to do the laundry...she never minded wearing them again. You're right, call em Depends and or diapers and you're out of luck.
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I'm so glad that this works for now. One thing to watch - a friend of mine told me that her mother had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's. Months later it was finally discovered that her dementia symptoms were caused by a drug for urinary incontinence. The caution here is to watch for changes always and keep drugs on the list of suspects. But as long as things are improving - enjoy the results!
Carol
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Thanks for letting us know. I'm glad that it worked out with your mom. FYI, when your mom eventually will be needing some kind of help, try first the incontinent pads. When she reaches the stage where she needs Depends pampers, Do Not Call It PAMPER. That is the 100% way of getting her to Refuse to Wear it. I've read how creative some people did to get their parent to wear Depend. They called it anything BUT Pamper. Special briefs, etc...
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