Managing bladder and bowel control - A Guide for Carers
Incontinence is a loss of bladder and/or bowel control and can have a major impact on many parts of a person’s life. Incontinence can cause stress, embarrassment and affect a person’s social life and self-esteem. There is help available to improve the situation.
What help is available
Continence advisors are available to help people to manage their bowel or bladder problems and can advise which products are best for their needs.
A continence advisor will help work out the factors causing the incontinence and recommend a treatment plan through an assessment. The assessment can either be at the person’s home or at an advisor’s office. After an assessment, depending on a person’s needs, they may be able to get free products, or access the Disability Allowance to assist with paying for product they require.
How to get an assessment?
You can ask your doctor to refer the person to a continence advisor. You, or the person you care for, can also call the Continence helpline on 0800 650 659 for friendly advice. As there can be a waitlist for continence advisors, please call the helpline for initial support.
For a list of continence services nationwide, call the helpline or visit the Continence service providers for adults and children page on the Continence NZ website.
