Incontinence is a condition that affects people of all ages. Incontinence can be difficult and embarrassing to deal with,no matter the age or reason. Helping a child with a disability, like autism, learn to manage incontinence can be especially challenging.
We have had a ton of first hand experience when it comes to incontinence in our home. There are a lot struggles well beyond potty training that can lead to incontinence. When it comes to a person with autism spectrum disorder, these are just a few of the factors that can play a part:
- Not being able to express need to go
- Changes in Routine
- Sensory Overloads
- Sleep Issues
- Comorbid disorders
Even as a young child, I remember missing my own body’s cues that I needed to go. Before the constant of iphones and video games, even just focusing on playing a board game could lead to leaks.
Night time incontinence (nocturnal enuresis) is another huge hurdle to get through. What do you do when you sleep through the cues! Though incontinence commonly affect young children, it can happen later in childhood and all through life. Today we are going to go over some tips & tricks to help with incontinence with autism & other special needs.
Incontinence with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Though incontinence can seem like an overwhelming issue, it doesn’t have to be. There are a few game changes that are very easy to implement into your daily routines. Here are our top tips to help with incontinence with autism spectrum disorder.
Today’s Post is Sponsored by Doyle Medical
Having a Routine
When it comes to autism, routine is key for every aspect of life. Bathroom needs are no different. Properly scheduled bathroom breaks in the schedule minimizes leaks and accidents from the get go.
Visual Schedules
Visual schedules are amazing! If your child is nonverbal or cannot express bathroom needs, using a “potty” card will help them express that need to go. When it comes to the bathroom, you can have a visual schedule that includes:
- Take Down pants/underwear
- Sit on Toliet
- Wipe when done
- Flush Toliet
- Pull up Pants
- Wash Hands (you can have a hand washing guide by the sink)
Preparing for Accidents
Being prepared always helps reduce stress and anxiety. Incontinence is no different. There are going to be times where you cannot fully prevent leaks and accidents. In those cases, having the proper incontinence products is key. You want to have the right size for both comfort and coverage.
Not only does Doyle Medical deliver products to your door, they also handle all the paperwork with your doctor, and bill your insurance. That way, it’s all taken care of for you so you can focus on everything else!
Doyle can provide any product that retailers like Amazon provides, but their service is much more personal and you have an actual sales and fulfillment team managing your orders, not to mention processing insurance and Medicaid pieces!
To get your complimentary sample of Doyle incontinence products, click here: https://doylemed.com/incontinence-sample-program/
Bedtime (nocturnal enuresis)
When it comes to bedtime incontinence (nocturnal enuresis), there is only so much you can do. That being said, there are two things that will help reduce this. Limit fluids an hour before bed and make sure to use the restroom right before bed. Doing this will absolutely lessen the occurrences overnight.
Patience & Practice: Incontinence with Autism Spectrum Disorder
When it comes to incontinence, it is much worse for the person experiencing it than the caregiver. Even with the capability of lessening the occurrences, it’s going to take time and practice. Always be patient and kind with these issues.
I also have incontinence and autism have battled it for a long time the information was very good.