Diapers are not only for children, but these can be used also for adults. Unfortunately, there are situations when they become a real rescue and can provide comfort not only to the patient (for example, lying patient`s or to someone who is ill with uncontrolled urination) but also to the person who cares for him.
Most often, these diapers are similar to baby diapers, they consist of a waterproof outer layer and an absorbent inner one. There are also different degrees of absorption, diapers can be divided into male and female, for different situations.
When are adult diapers used?
Situations in which such adult hygiene items are needed:
- a postoperative period when strict bed rest is required (in such cases, using diapers is even better than using a catheter);
- serious illnesses and injuries requiring permanent bedtime;
- diseases associated with uncontrolled urination (for example, diseases of the urinary tract, gynecological and urological diseases);
- old age, in which a person is unable to control the body’s natural functions;
What are the kinds of adult diapers?
This special hygienic linen can be divided into many varieties by different parameters.
- Absorption rate
This is probably the most important feature that you need to know to start making choices. By this parameter, diapers can be with the usual, high, and very high absorption level. Many manufacturers indicate these degrees in drops or in liters. What is needed in this case can be calculated by the approximate volume of the bladder – an average of about 500 ml.
- Gender
The female diapers will be flatter, but the male diapers will have a pocket in front for greater convenience. There are also unisex variants that suit both men and women professional activities at which it is not possible to go to the toilet for a long time.
- Form
The form of diapers can be without any clasps and put on like pants. Among them are those that you can safely put on under clothes – they are almost invisible and very comfortable, although they have a sufficient degree of absorption. And there is a more convenient form of diapers, which look like baby diapers, with clamps or buttons, which is very convenient for the care of lying patients.
- Size
It is also important to choose the right size. Different manufacturers specify this option differently. For example, you can to choose diapers by weight: up to 55 kg, from 55 to 75 kg, over 75 kg or over 100-110 kg. There are gradations and sizes: size 0 (very small or XS) – smallest, for people with waist circumference up to 60 cm, size 1 (small or S) – waist from 60 to 80 cm, size 2 (medium or M) – waist up to 110 cm, size 3 (large or L) – waist up to 150 cm, size 4 (very large or XL) – waist over 150 cm. Sometimes, in addition to waist size, the size of the thighs or the volume of the legs may also be indicated.
First of all, you need to determine all the above parameters. But, unfortunately, there are no perfect diapers for adults. Therefore, it is necessary to start with the personal feelings of the patient. Also, make sure that the waistband is stretchy enough and does not squeeze the belly so that the clasps and velcro do not rub the skin. Materials, especially internal ones, must be natural and with well absorption profile. The outer layer can be completely waterproof (best for lying patients) or soft and breathable, which does not give off rustling while walking (for active people).