How to Choose the Right Incontinence Product: A Guide for Older Adults

Dealing with incontinence is nothing to be embarrassed about. In fact, it’s more common than you might think – millions of older adults manage some form of bladder leakage every day. The good news? There are excellent incontinence products available that can help you stay dry, comfortable, and confident. 

At APA Medical, we believe choosing the right product shouldn’t be confusing or overwhelming. This simple guide is designed to help you find a solution that works for your needs, lifestyle, and comfort. 

Step 1: Understand What Type of Incontinence You Have 

Knowing what kind of incontinence, you’re dealing with will help you choose the most effective product. Common types include: 

• Stress Incontinence: Leaking when you cough, laugh, or lift something heavy. 
• Urge Incontinence: A sudden, strong urge to go and sometimes not making it in time. 
• Overflow Incontinence: Frequent dribbling or a feeling that your bladder never fully empties. 
• Functional Incontinence: Trouble getting to the bathroom in time due to mobility or health issues. 

You may experience more than one type. If you’re not sure which type is affecting you, talk to your doctor or healthcare provider. You should always keep your doctor informed of new or worsening incontinence, as it could be a sign of something more serious.  

Step 2: Choose the Right Level of Absorbency 

Products for incontinence come in different absorbency levels to match your needs. 

• Light: Best for small leaks or drips (like stress incontinence). 
• Moderate: Great for more frequent leaks or when you’re unsure how much protection you’ll need. 
• Heavy/Overnight: Designed for full bladder leaks or use while sleeping. 

If you’re active during the day and want something more protective at night, many people use different products for daytime and nighttime. 

Step 3: Pick a Style That Fits Your Lifestyle 

You deserve comfort and dignity. The right product should fit your daily routine without getting in the way. Here are some popular options. 

• Pads or Guards: Worn inside your underwear, these are perfect for light to moderate leaks and offer a discreet option. 
• Protective Underwear (Pull-ups): These look and feel like regular underwear but have absorbent material built in. Great for moderate to heavy leakage.
• Tabbed Briefs: Easy to put on and take off, especially if you need help with dressing or mobility. Often used overnight or for heavier incontinence because they’re also more absorbent than pull-ups.
• External Products (Like condom catheters or PureWick systems): For people who need long-term or overnight urine collection with minimal pad use. Some options are specific to your sex. 

APA carries products that offer breathable materials, odor control, and a comfortable fit. Many brands now offer soft, cloth-like materials that feel more like regular clothing. 

Step 4: Don’t Be Afraid to Try a Few Options

It’s okay if you don’t find the perfect product right away. Everyone’s body is different, and what works for one person might not work for another. APA offers free sample packs so you can try different styles and sizes before buying in bulk – just give us a call to order some. 

Your Dignity Matters

Incontinence doesn’t have to slow you down. With the right product, you can stay active, sleep better, and enjoy life without worry. Choosing incontinence products is a personal decision, and the most important thing is finding what makes you feel most comfortable and confident. 

If you have questions or need help choosing the right product, our team at APA is here for you. We offer a wide range of trusted brands and helpful advice: always with respect and privacy

With APA’s program, you never have to worry about making extra trips or explaining your needs in public. Supplies are shipped in plain, unmarked packaging, refilled on a regular schedule, and delivered right to your door. You’ll always have what you need on hand, without the hassle.

How to set up delivery

Starting is simple. Call us at 612-263-6574 and we’ll walk you through:

• Which products you need
• How many you use
• How often you’d like deliveries

From there, your supplies arrive when you need them, and you can adjust your order anytime.

Products available for delivery

APA stocks a wide range of incontinence supplies, including:

• Pull-up underwear (men’s, women’s, unisex)
• Tabbed briefs with heavy absorbency
• Bladder pads and booster pads
• Disposable bed pads (chucks)
• Adult wipes and hygiene creams
• Exam gloves

Not sure which option fits best? Our team can help you choose the right size and absorbency level.

A discreet, dependable solution

Whether you’re managing incontinence for yourself, caring for a loved one, or coordinating for a client, APA’s home delivery service removes the stress of staying stocked. It’s private, reliable, and flexible to your needs.

Ready to get started? 

Call 612-722-9000 today to set up your incontinence supply delivery and take one more worry off your list.

Disclaimer 

Please consult a healthcare professional for medical advice and care. The information provided by APA Medical is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.