INCONTINENCE
One of the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease that most people don't want to discuss is bowel and bladder accidents. This occurs in the later stage of the disease. At stage 2 they may develop urinary incontinence, but in stage 3 most patients will have trouble controlling bodily functions. This person may not remember what the sensation means or is unaware of the need to relieve them self. If they do have the sensation they may have memory problems making it difficult to find the bathroom. There are many possible causes of incontinence in older people besides Alzheimer's. 1) frequent drinking of diuretic like coffee, tea, cocoa, beer, or colas. 2) side effects of medications. 3) infections, such as urinary tract infections. 4) prostate problems. 5) weak pelvic muscles. 6) anxiety or fear.

Once a person has more than an occasional accident you will have to begin to deal with incontinence as a regular part of life. Try to learn to recognize the nonverbal clues that your loved one is giving. Maybe schedule frequent bathroom visits. Put signs or pictures to show where the bathroom is. Make sure their clothes are easy to get on and off. Decrease the amount of fluids at night. And use an adult absorbency pad. They have some that look like underpants, and your Alzheimer person may not even know the difference.

I hope you enjoy my video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1-dWlsgM9LA&layer_token=3c1917039222373

I hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A. Rock & Co., Pub
http://www.mariefostino.com/