Just as is the case with any piece of clothing, a diaper too needs to be of the right size. On second thought though, while you can wear an ill-fitting dress and still get away with it, you cannot possibly do so with a diaper. You absolutely need the best adult diaper that fits you well. It is crucial for your comfort as well as dignity. But why is that so, and how can you find a diaper of the ideal size? Let us discuss this below.
Adult Diapers
Diapers for elderly men and women are special briefs that are designed to deal with the problem of incontinence. Their core is made of several layers of spongy fabric which readily absorbs moisture and keeps you dry. There are many different types and styles of diapers for senior citizens, viz.
- Pant-Style Diapers – Also known as pull-up diapers, they can be worn just like regular underpants.
- Tape-Style Diapers – These diapers require the assistance of a caregiver. Disposable Briefs for adults- These are plastic briefs that are meant to be worn over regular cloth briefs.
- Incontinence Pads – They are used for lining regular cloth underwear.
- Swimming Disposable Briefs – These are used for containing faecal incontinence.
- Overnight diapers for adults – These are pull-up or tape-style diapers with higher absorbing capacity making them perfect for wearing at night.
Why Does Diaper Size Matter
Choosing the size of an adult diaper can be quite confusing. But you cannot simply pick any and make do with it, because it isn’t just about comfort. Many factors can affect the function of the diaper as well as your health if it is not of the correct size. Hence, if you are someone who has to wear diapers every day, or a loved one looking after someone with incontinence, then you need to read this.
How to Know if Diaper is Too Small or Tight
If your diaper is too small for you you will find indentations around your legs and waist. It can also cause redness in the groin area. However, if it has tabs, you can try making adjustments to see if it is really too tight or if you were only securing it so.
How Does a Tight Diaper Affect You
Cuts and Tears
If the diaper is too small for you, chances are that it can tear off at the seams around the waist or legs, resulting in leakage. It can also cause the diaper to cut into your skin.
Allergic Reaction
A smaller diaper sits too close to the skin. This can cause the fragrances or dyes present in the diaper to seep into the skin, causing skin allergy.
Rashes
With age, skin becomes fragile, and its barrier weakens, increasing the chance of diaper rashes. A tight diaper can trap heat and moisture causing skin irritation and chafing which can further aggravate this condition.
Restricted Blood Flow
If you require an adult diaper medium in size but wear a small one, then you may experience major discomfort due to blood flow restriction in the groin region. This can lead to nerve damage and other health complications beginning with tingling, numbness and muscle cramps.
How to Know if Diaper is Too Big or Loose
If your diaper sticks out from your clothing, it is a sure sign of it is too big for you. Such a diaper will also gather together at the legs and waist, and its core will not rest on the skin but sag down.
How Does a Loose Diaper Affect You
Indiscreet
A diaper that’s too big tends to bunch up around the buttocks and juts out of clothes. Also, its waistband sags which hinder your movement and can even produce rustling sounds.
Leakages
If you wear an adult diaper large in size but actually need a smaller one then you are bound to experience leakage. Such a diaper doesn’t get properly secured at the leg openings causing urine to trickle out its sides. And in the case of a bed-bound patient, leaks can occur around the waistband too.
Skin Irritation
The extra material which gathers around the legs and at the waist owing to the diaper being too large can pinch the skin. This can result in chafing or sores.
Now that you know what can go wrong by wearing an ill-fitting diaper, you must ensure to get yourself the best adult diaper that is right for your size. Look for the signs we discussed above to see if they are too small or too big for you and get one that fits you perfectly.
