A Compassionate Guide: How to put on Depends on a man?

According to the National Association For Continence, millions of men experience some form of incontinence, requiring discreet and effective protection. This guide details precisely how to put on Depends on a man, ensuring a process that is respectful, comfortable, and secure for all involved.

Quick Summary

A proper application of incontinence wear involves gathering supplies, choosing the correct size, and following specific steps for the individual's mobility, whether standing or lying down, to ensure a comfortable and leak-proof fit.

Key Points

• Prepare all supplies: Gather fresh underwear, wipes, and gloves before starting to ensure a smooth, quick process.

• Choose the right size: Ensure the product fits snugly by taking waist and hip measurements to prevent uncomfortable chafing or leaks.

• Follow the correct method: Use the standing method for mobile individuals or the lying down technique for assisted care to respect independence and ensure safety.

• Align the product correctly: Orient the underwear so the back (often indicated by a colored band) is positioned correctly to maximize absorbency and prevent leaks.

• Smooth out all wrinkles: After application, check for and remove any folds or creases, which can cause discomfort and compromise the leak-proof barrier.

• Maintain skin health: Change the product regularly and use a skin barrier cream to protect against irritation and rashes.

Preparation is Key: Gathering Your Supplies

Before beginning the process, having all necessary items within reach will make the experience smoother and more dignified.

What You Will Need:

• Fresh Depends protective underwear of the correct size.
• Disposal bags for the used item.
• Wet wipes or a washcloth and basin with warm water for cleaning.
• Barrier cream or skin protectant (if recommended by a healthcare provider).
• Disposable gloves to maintain hygiene.

Sizing and Product Selection

Choosing the right product and size is critical for comfort and to prevent leaks. Depends offers various types of incontinence products, with protective underwear being a common choice for men. Checking the waist and hip measurements and comparing them to the sizing chart on the product packaging will ensure the best fit.

The Standing Method: For Mobile Men

For men who can stand safely with minimal assistance, this method provides maximum independence.

1. Prepare the new product: Open the fresh Depends and stretch the leg openings slightly to prepare them for stepping through.
2. Remove the old product: Have the individual lower their pants and step out of the used underwear. Gently roll the soiled garment from the legs upward, containing any waste inside.
3. Cleanse the area: Use wet wipes or a damp cloth to clean the perineal area thoroughly. Pat the skin dry completely or allow it to air dry. Apply any barrier cream needed.
4. Step into the new product: Have the man step one foot at a time into the leg openings, similar to regular underwear. The side with the blue waistband is typically the back. This should be confirmed on the product packaging. Pull the garment up to the knees.
5. Pull up and adjust: Pull the Depends up the rest of the way to the waist. Smooth any wrinkles and ensure the product is snug against the groin and buttocks, with the waistband sitting comfortably around the waist.

The Lying Down Method: For Assisted Care

For men with limited mobility, applying the product while lying down is often necessary. A caregiver can perform this method with a compassionate and respectful approach.

1. Start on the side: Gently roll the individual onto their side, facing away from you. Remove the soiled garment by rolling it toward the center, away from the body. Cleanse and dry the skin, applying cream if necessary.
2. Place the new product: Fold the new Depends in half lengthwise and tuck it between the individual's legs and buttocks, ensuring the blue waistband is toward the back. Ensure the front half is accessible.
3. Roll and pull through: Gently roll the person back onto their back, pulling the front of the Depends through their legs. Spread the material and pull the garment up over the groin and abdomen.
4. Final adjustments: Roll the person back onto their other side to pull the back portion up smoothly. Adjust the product so it is centered and snug, with no wrinkles that could cause friction or leaks.

Comparison of Incontinence Products

Feature	Protective Underwear (Pull-Ups)	Tab-Style Briefs (Diapers)
Application	Worn like regular underwear, standing or lying.	Attached with tabs on the sides, typically applied while lying.
Mobility	Best for individuals with some mobility.	Suitable for individuals with limited or no mobility.
Leak Protection	Good for moderate to heavy incontinence.	High absorbency, best for heavy to severe incontinence.
Ease of Use	Easier for independent application.	Easier for a caregiver to apply and change, especially when lying down.
Fit	Snug, underwear-like fit.	Adjustable fit for various body shapes.
Disposal	Tear-away sides for easy removal and disposal.	Tabs are resealable for inspection or adjustment.

Ensuring a Snug and Secure Fit

Regardless of the method used, a proper fit is essential to prevent leaks and maximize comfort. After application, check these points:

• Leg cuffs: The elastic leg cuffs should fit snugly in the groin crease, not bunched up or twisted.
• Waistband: The waistband should be comfortable and level around the waist.
• Front vs. Back: The back of the product is often indicated by a colored waistband (like blue) or a clear label. Improper alignment can lead to leaks.
• Smooth out wrinkles: Run your hand over the surface to smooth out any creases or folds, which can compromise the seal.

Tips for Maintaining Skin Health and Dignity

Beyond the physical process, maintaining dignity and health is a priority. Communicate respectfully and ensure privacy during changes.

• Change products regularly to prevent skin irritation, rashes, and infections caused by prolonged exposure to moisture.
• Consider using a skin barrier cream to protect delicate skin.
• Always handle with care and speak in a kind, reassuring tone.

Conclusion

Mastering how to put on Depends on a man involves more than just a mechanical process; it requires preparation, proper technique, and above all, respect and dignity. By following these steps for both mobile and assisted care, caregivers can provide effective and compassionate support. A proper fitting product is the best defense against leaks and skin issues, ensuring a higher quality of life for the individual receiving care. For more information on aging and health, visit the National Institute on Aging.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know what size Depends to get for a man?

To find the correct size, you should measure the individual's waist and hips at their widest points. Most Depends packaging includes a sizing chart that corresponds to these measurements. A proper fit is crucial for comfort and leak protection.

How can I prevent leaks with Depends protective underwear?

To prevent leaks, ensure the product is sized correctly. The leg cuffs must fit snugly and lie flat against the groin. After pulling up the underwear, smooth out any wrinkles or bunching. Check that the product is not worn backward, and change it frequently.

What's the difference between Depends and adult diapers?

Depends protective underwear is designed to be pulled up like regular underwear and is suitable for moderate incontinence, offering discretion and mobility. Adult diapers, or tab-style briefs, have adjustable side tabs and are generally used for heavy to severe incontinence, or for individuals with limited mobility who require assisted changes.

How often should Depends be changed?

The frequency of changes depends on the individual's needs and the absorbency level of the product. It should be changed as soon as it is soiled to prevent skin irritation. At a minimum, it should be changed in the morning, during the day as needed, and before bed.

Can Depends be put on while a man is lying down?

Yes, Depends protective underwear can be put on while a man is lying down. This method is particularly useful for individuals with limited mobility. It typically involves rolling the person onto their side to position and then pull up the underwear.

What should I do if the Depends are causing skin irritation?

If skin irritation occurs, ensure the area is cleaned and dried thoroughly during each change. Using a high-quality skin barrier cream can protect the skin from moisture. If the problem persists, consult a healthcare provider, and consider switching to a different product or size.

How do you discreetly dispose of used incontinence products?

For discreet disposal, roll the used product into a compact bundle and place it inside a sealed, opaque disposal bag. Dispose of the bag in a covered wastebasket. For extra odor protection, use a trash can with a lid or designated diaper disposal system.