Daily living and health
Toileting
Toileting, as an activity of daily living, means getting to and from the toilet, using it, and cleaning up afterward. It includes managing clothing and hygiene. Weakness, balance problems, or dementia can make it hard. Caregivers help with safe access, privacy, and hygiene.
Why it matters for your family
Toileting is private, so people often delay asking for help. Delays can lead to falls, skin problems, and accidents. Night trips are especially risky. A caregiver can help with walking to the bathroom, a raised seat or bedside commode, and cleaning up with respect. Mention sudden changes to a doctor. New accidents can signal an infection or another treatable issue. A common mistake is scolding or limiting fluids. Drinking less can make problems worse. HomeCare.com advanced companion care includes more hands-on help with toileting and hygiene, but no medical treatment.
Source: acl.gov
Read more: Personal and advanced care
Related terms
- ContinenceContinence, as an activity of daily living, means the ability to control bladder and bowel.
- IncontinenceIncontinence is the loss of control over the bladder, bowel, or both, causing leaks or accidents.
- Bedside commodeA bedside commode is a portable chair with a toilet seat and a removable bucket.
- Raised toilet seatA raised toilet seat is a seat added on top of a toilet to make it higher.
- TransferringTransferring, as an activity of daily living, means moving between surfaces, such as bed to chair, chair to standing, or wheelchair to toilet.
- Fall riskFall risk is the chance that a person will fall and be hurt.
