Selection of continence products: perspectives of people who have incontinence and their carers

Purpose : The needs, issues and concerns of people with incontinence and their carers were explored in order to inform the development of a comprehensive Australian consumer guide to continence products.

Participants and methods : Semi-structured interviews and focus groups were conducted with a wide range of people with incontinence and carers. Questions centred around issues and concerns regarding continence product selection, what information people need to make informed choices, and how the information should be presented. Qualitative analysis highlighted common themes and specific issues.

Results : Issues raised by consumers included the paucity of written information currently available, ignorance among health professionals concerning continence products and the lack of information about sources of help. Most consumers selected products by trial and error and were unaware of the range of products and services available. They wanted a consumer guide to continence products to be user-friendly and easily accessible, with information on product availability, cost, quality, comfort and design. They also wanted more general information on incontinence, sources of help, and how to select, care for and dispose of products. Participants wanted the guide to be made available in different languages, in large print and simple language.

Conclusions : The findings highlight the need and provide a framework for a consumer guide and information on continence products.