Dementia and Continence Issues in Grand Rapids, MI

Loss of continence means losing control over bladder or bowel function. This is also called incontinence. For people living with dementia in Grand Rapids, Michigan, incontinence is common and can be caused by both changes in the brain and other medical issues.

Understanding what’s happening – and knowing where to get help in West Michigan – can make continence issues easier to manage for both the person with dementia and their caregivers.

How Dementia Affects Bladder and Bowel Control

Our brains send signals to the bladder and bowel to let us know when they are full and when it’s time to use the toilet. Being continent depends on:

  • Recognizing body sensations (for example, a full bladder)
  • Remembering how, when, and where to use the toilet
  • Being able to find the bathroom and undress in time
  • Being able to understand and follow simple steps

With dementia, changes in the brain can interfere with a person’s ability to:

  • Recognize the need to use the toilet
  • Wait until it’s appropriate to go
  • Find and recognize the bathroom
  • Use the toilet properly (sitting, wiping, flushing, washing hands)

As dementia progresses, these changes can lead to both urinary and fecal incontinence.

Other Causes of Incontinence in People With Dementia

Incontinence is not always caused only by dementia. In Grand Rapids, older adults frequently have other health conditions that can make continence worse. These may include:

  • Urinary tract infections (UTIs) – more common in cold weather when people drink less
  • Constipation – often related to low fiber intake, low activity in winter, or certain medications
  • Enlarged prostate in men
  • Hormonal changes
  • Side effects of medications (for sleep, blood pressure, mood, or pain)
  • Mobility problems – arthritis, stroke, or balance issues that make it hard to reach the bathroom in time

Many of these causes are treatable, so the first step in Grand Rapids should always be:

  • See a doctor for a full medical assessment. This could be a primary care provider or a geriatric specialist at:
    • Spectrum Health (Corewell Health)
    • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
    • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health
    • Mercy Health locations in the Grand Rapids area

You can also ask for a referral to a continence nurse or urologist. Early assessment can prevent complications and may significantly improve continence.

Information to Share With the Doctor

You can help your Grand Rapids healthcare provider work out why incontinence is happening. Before your visit, try to track:

  • When the problem started
  • Whether it is:
    • Urinary incontinence
    • Fecal incontinence
    • Or both
  • How often accidents happen each day or week
  • Whether clothing is soaked or only slightly damp
  • Whether the person passes urine or stool in unusual places
  • Any increase in confusion or change in behavior
  • Any fever, burning, or pain when using the toilet
  • Any recent falls or changes in mobility
  • All medications and supplements the person is taking

If the medical evaluation does not show another clear cause, the incontinence is most likely related to dementia itself.

Caring for Someone With Dementia and Incontinence in Grand Rapids

For caregivers in Grand Rapids, incontinence can feel overwhelming—especially when combined with memory loss, behavior changes, and other daily care needs. But there are many strategies that can reduce stress and improve quality of life.

Stay Calm, Gentle, and Patient

The person with dementia may feel:

  • Embarrassed
  • Ashamed
  • Frustrated or confused

Caregivers can help by:

  • Speaking calmly and reassuringly
  • Using a gentle but firm tone when giving instructions
  • Avoiding criticism, blame, or visible disgust
  • Treating accidents as medical issues, not personal failures

Sometimes, a little appropriate humor can ease tension, as long as it never makes the person feel mocked or humiliated.

Supporting Hydration and Toileting Routines

In West Michigan, especially during long, cold winters, many older adults drink less, which can worsen both constipation and UTIs. People with dementia may also forget to drink or no longer recognize thirst.

Encourage Adequate Fluids

Aim for 5–8 glasses of fluid per day, unless a doctor has advised otherwise. Options include:

  • Water
  • Herbal or decaffeinated tea
  • Broth or clear soups
  • Small amounts of jelly, ice cream, or custard for extra fluid

Try to:

  • Offer drinks with and between meals
  • Keep a favorite cup or water bottle nearby
  • Gently remind the person to drink throughout the day

Limit Caffeine

Caffeine can irritate the bladder and increase urgency. Consider:

  • Decaffeinated coffee and tea
  • Limiting soda and energy drinks

Create a Regular Toileting Schedule

Many people with dementia do better with a set routine. You can:

  • Observe natural patterns for a few days
  • Then suggest bathroom visits:
    • First thing in the morning
    • Before and after meals
    • Before going out
    • Before bed
    • Every 2–3 hours during the day

Use simple prompts like, “Let’s go to the bathroom now,” rather than asking, “Do you need to go?”

Communicating About Toileting

People with dementia may have trouble understanding complex instructions or finding the right words. These tips can help:

Use Simple, Familiar Language

  • Give short, step-by-step directions:
    • “Stand up.”
    • “Walk to the bathroom.”
    • “Turn around.”
    • “Sit down.”
  • Use words that are familiar to the person:
    • “Bathroom,” “pee,” “tinkle,” “toilet,” or whatever they have always used

Watch for Non-Verbal Clues

The person may not say they need the toilet, but you may notice:

  • Pulling at clothes or fidgeting
  • Pacing or restlessness
  • A flushed face
  • Sudden agitation

If you see these signs, gently suggest a bathroom trip.

Do Not Rush

  • Allow extra time in the bathroom
  • Reassure them: “You’re okay, we have time,” or “I’m right here to help if you need me”

Adapting the Home Environment in Grand Rapids

Many homes in Grand Rapids—especially older houses—have layouts that can make toileting more difficult (narrow hallways, bathrooms on different floors, lower light). Small changes can make a big difference.

Make the Bathroom Easy to Find

  • Use a clear sign on the bathroom door with both words and a picture
  • Leave the bathroom door open when not in use
  • Use a night-light in the hallway and bathroom
  • Ensure the door can be opened from the outside in case of a fall
  • Disable or remove locks so the person cannot lock themselves in

Reduce Distance and Fear of Falling

  • If the bathroom is far from the bedroom or living room, consider:
    • A bedside commode
    • A urinal or portable toilet for nighttime
  • Make sure the bed is not too high, so the person feels safe getting in and out

Improve Visibility

  • Use contrasting colors:
    • If the floor and toilet seat are the same color, choose a seat in a contrasting color to make it easier to see
  • Improve lighting:
    • Use brighter bulbs or additional lamps
    • Open curtains during the day to let in natural light

Remove Confusing Objects

Some people with dementia may urinate in inappropriate places if they mistake objects for toilets. Try to:

  • Remove or cover containers that look like toilets (buckets, tall vases, trash cans)
  • Keep bathroom doors clearly marked and other doors closed if they lead to closets or storage areas

Clothing and Protective Products

Clothing can make a big difference in how easily a person can use the toilet.

Choose Easy-On, Easy-Off Clothing

  • Elastic waist pants instead of belts and buttons
  • Avoid complicated zippers, suspenders, and tight undergarments
  • Use clothing that:
    • Is comfortable
    • Washes easily
    • Does not need ironing

Use Protective Garments When Needed

To reduce stress and protect furniture and bedding, consider:

  • Disposable pads or liners
  • Protective underwear (adult briefs)
  • Waterproof mattress and chair covers

Talk with a healthcare provider or continence nurse about which products are most appropriate. Many local pharmacies in Grand Rapids and medical supply stores carry a wide range of incontinence products.

Improving Continence While in the Bathroom

Once the person is on or near the toilet, these strategies may help:

  • Allow them to sit and stand a few times if they are restless or hyperactive
  • Run the tap water or offer a small drink to help trigger urination
  • Offer a distraction:
    • Soft music
    • A simple picture book
    • Gentle conversation

Helpful Bathroom Aids

Consider installing:

  • A raised toilet seat to make sitting and standing easier
  • Wall-mounted grab bars near the toilet
  • A securely fastened toilet seat to reduce slipping
  • A clear floor:
    • Remove small rugs and mats that can cause tripping

These aids are especially important in winter months when joint pain and stiffness may be worse, and floors can be slippery from snow or rain.

Skin Care for People With Incontinence

Skin care is very important, especially for older adults with incontinence in Michigan’s dry winter air, which can make skin more fragile.

Protecting the Skin

  • Gently wash the skin after each accident with warm water and mild soap
  • Pat dry thoroughly—do not rub hard
  • Use a barrier cream (zinc oxide or similar) if recommended by a healthcare provider
  • Make sure the skin does not stay in contact with plastic from pads or covers, as this can cause irritation and soreness
  • Change wet clothing and pads promptly

If you notice:

  • Redness that doesn’t improve
  • Open sores
  • Signs of infection (warmth, swelling, pus, or increased pain)

contact a healthcare provider in Grand Rapids promptly.

Preventing and Managing Constipation

Constipation is very common in people with dementia and can worsen incontinence. In West Michigan, reduced activity during icy winters and lower fluid intake can make this problem even more frequent.

Helpful Strategies

  • Offer a high-fiber diet, including:
    • Whole grains
    • Fruits and vegetables
    • Beans and legumes
  • Encourage regular physical activity:
    • Short indoor walks in winter
    • Light stretching or chair exercises
  • Maintain a regular toileting routine:
    • Try to have the person sit on the toilet at the same time each day, especially after breakfast

Keep a simple record of bowel movements, since people with dementia may forget when they last went.

When to See a Doctor

Always contact a doctor if:

  • Constipation lasts more than a few days
  • There is pain, blood, or significant discomfort
  • The person seems more confused, nauseated, or has abdominal swelling

Respecting Dignity and Privacy

Losing control of bladder or bowel can be deeply humiliating. Caregivers in Grand Rapids should:

  • Close doors or curtains when helping with toileting
  • Cover the person with a towel or robe when possible
  • Speak respectfully and avoid negative comments about smells or messes
  • Reassure the person that this is a common medical problem, not their fault

Accidents will happen. Try to stay focused on comfort, safety, and preserving the person’s dignity.

Taking Care of Yourself as a Caregiver in Grand Rapids

Caring for someone with dementia and incontinence can be exhausting. It is important not to struggle alone.

Seek Professional and Local Support

In Grand Rapids, you can:

  • Talk with the person’s primary care provider or specialists at:
    • Spectrum Health (Corewell Health)
    • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
    • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health
    • Mercy Health offices in Kent County
  • Contact local public health resources:
    • Kent County Health Department
    • Grand Rapids Public Health programs for seniors and caregivers
  • Connect with:
    • Local Alzheimer’s and dementia support groups
    • Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan for caregiver resources and respite options

Ask about:

  • Continence clinics or continence nurses
  • Occupational therapists who can assess the home and recommend bathroom aids
  • Social workers who can help coordinate services and respite care

Make Sure You Get Breaks

  • Arrange regular respite care (family, friends, adult day programs, or in-home care services)
  • Take time to rest, eat well, and attend your own medical appointments
  • Consider joining a caregiver support group in Grand Rapids or online

Looking after your own health allows you to continue providing safe, compassionate care.

  • Get a medical evaluation early to rule out treatable causes like infections or constipation.
  • Share detailed information with the doctor about when and how incontinence occurs.
  • Stay calm, gentle, and patient—your attitude can reduce distress for both of you.
  • Adapt the environment: clear paths, good lighting, clear bathroom signs, and bathroom aids.
  • Use simple communication and watch for non-verbal signs that the person needs the toilet.
  • Protect the skin with good hygiene and barrier creams when needed.
  • Support hydration, fiber intake, and activity, especially during Michigan’s cold winters.
  • Respect dignity and privacy at all times.
  • Seek local support in Grand Rapids and take regular breaks as a caregiver.

By combining medical care, practical home strategies, and local support resources, families in Grand Rapids can manage dementia-related continence issues more effectively and maintain a better quality of life for everyone involved.