Yes, Depend Has Products with Adjustable Tabs
For those seeking the convenience and security of resealable tabs, the Depend brand offers product options that feature a hook-and-loop closure system, similar to Velcro®. These products are distinct from the more common pull-up style absorbent underwear and are often referred to as briefs. The ability to fasten and refasten the sides is a crucial feature for many users and caregivers, providing a tailored fit and simplifying the changing process.
The specific products to look for are the Depend Adjustable Incontinence Underwear and Depend Protection with Tabs. These briefs feature strong, high-quality tabs that can be opened and closed multiple times without losing their grip. This allows for quick checks and adjustments, ensuring a snug and secure fit around the waist and legs to prevent leaks.
Benefits of Tab-Style vs. Pull-Up Incontinence Products
While Depend is widely known for its pull-up style absorbent underwear, the tab-style briefs offer unique advantages, especially for individuals with limited mobility or those who require caregiver assistance.
- Ease of Changing: Briefs with tabs allow for changes to be performed while the user is sitting, lying down, or standing, without the need to remove pants or shoes. This is a significant benefit in caregiving situations and for users with mobility issues.
- Customizable Fit: The resealable tabs enable a more precise, customized fit around the waist and legs compared to the fixed elasticity of pull-ups. This is essential for preventing leaks and ensuring comfort.
- Heavier Absorbency: Many tab-style briefs are designed for heavier to maximum absorbency, often with robust leakage barriers, making them ideal for overnight use or for individuals with heavy incontinence.
- Dignity and Comfort: The soft, cloth-like backing on these products provides a more dignified and comfortable experience, while the adjustable tabs offer reassurance of a secure fit.
How to Choose the Right Tab-Style Depend Product
Choosing the correct product involves considering absorbency needs, size, and fit. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
- Assess Absorbency Level: Depend with tabs is available in maximum or heavy absorbency levels. Determine if the need is for moderate, heavy, or overnight protection. The packaging will specify the absorbency level.
- Ensure Correct Sizing: Accurate waist and hip measurements are critical for a secure fit. Use a tape measure and consult the brand’s sizing chart, as an ill-fitting product is a primary cause of leaks.
- Read Product Labels: Not all Depend products have tabs. Always check the packaging for the words “briefs with tabs” or “adjustable” to ensure you are purchasing the correct type. The more common pull-up styles are often labeled “underwear.”
- Consider the User's Mobility: For highly active individuals, pull-ups might be preferred for their similarity to regular underwear. For those with significant mobility challenges or who spend a lot of time in bed, briefs with tabs are the more practical choice.
How to Use Depend Adjustable Underwear
These products are designed with user and caregiver convenience in mind. There are typically two main ways to use them:
- Full Application: The individual can put the briefs on while standing or sitting, pulling them up like regular underwear. If the sides are perforated, they can be torn open for quick and easy removal. The four or six prefastened tabs are then adjusted for a snug fit.
- Brief Application (for less mobile individuals): The briefs can be applied while the person is lying on their side. The briefs are positioned, and the tabs are refastened on each side for a secure closure without needing to pull the product up from the feet. This method is especially helpful for bedridden individuals or those with limited lower-body mobility.
Depend Adjustable Underwear vs. Depend Pull-Ups
It is important to understand the fundamental difference between these two primary Depend styles. The distinction lies in their design and method of application.
| Feature | Depend Adjustable Briefs (with Tabs) | Depend Absorbent Underwear (Pull-Ups) |
|---|---|---|
| Closure | Resealable, hook-and-loop tabs | Tear-away side seams |
| Fit Customization | Highly adjustable via side tabs | Elastic waistband with less room for adjustment |
| Application Method | Can be applied standing or lying down | Worn by pulling up from the feet like regular underwear |
| Best For | Caregivers, individuals with mobility issues, heavy incontinence | Active individuals, moderate incontinence |
| Absorbency | Often maximum or heavy absorbency | Varies, typically moderate to maximum |
Exploring Alternatives to Depend with Tabs
While Depend is a well-known brand, other manufacturers also produce high-quality incontinence briefs with resealable tabs. Brands such as Prevail®, TENA®, and Tranquility® offer tab-style briefs with varying absorbency levels and features. Investigating options from multiple brands can help you find the product that best fits your specific needs for comfort, absorbency, and price. Some alternative briefs may use different types of tabs, so always check the product description to ensure they offer the resealable feature you're looking for.
For more information on selecting the right incontinence products, consulting a reputable resource like Elder Depot can provide further guidance on different types and brands: Elder Depot - Adult Diapers.
Conclusion
In summary, for those wondering if they make Depends with velcro sides, the answer is a clear yes. The Depend Adjustable Incontinence Underwear and Depend Protection with Tabs product lines are specifically designed with resealable, adjustable tabs that function like velcro. These briefs offer enhanced convenience and a secure fit, making them a suitable choice for users and caregivers who require a customizable product. By understanding the distinction between pull-ups and tab-style briefs, you can make an informed decision to ensure comfort and reliable protection.
