When is the last time you read a book or watched a show or movie that highlighted urinary incontinence? Chances are, you haven’t. When something isn’t discussed in popular culture it may be even harder to discuss privately. That helps us to understand why discussions around incontinence can be so awkward. Most people don’t have a language for incontinence; such a language isn’t typically spoken in the home. The first step is to start defining what incontinence means to you and describing your experience with it.
Two-way conversations
Once you have found your words, a meaningful conversation can occur on this important topic. Loved ones will want to understand what is happening. They may have attributed recent awkwardness or withdrawal from socializing to something else entirely and will appreciate a new perspective on the matter. Use the conversational setting to ask for help such as making/attending doctor appointments, finding the right products, talking to your insurance representatives, and researching additional information.
Overcoming embarrassment
Oftentimes, the best way around a difficult topic is through it. Tackle it head on. Remember that incontinence affects over 25 million Americans of every age, ethnicity and gender for many reasons.
Finding appropriate resources
You are not alone. Incontinence affects your way of life. The smartest, healthiest thing you can do is find the best ways to manage your incontinence. You can search online for “incontinence organizations” which will yield results such as the National Association for Continence, social service networks, and a host of online and local incontinence support groups. You can also contact your insurance by calling the phone number on the back of your insurance card and asking about the supplies and supports they may cover.
You can always speak with an ActivStyle representative about your incontinence. This is what we do – every day – we help people with incontinence manage it with disposable incontinence supplies covered by insurance. We are here to make life easier.
