A special air mattress may be ordered by the doctor to prevent skin breakdown. A commode or urinal may be necessary when flexibility and distance to the bathroom are a problem. They may be especially helpful at night. Be sensitive to the older person's feelings, and mention this to the doctor. Loss of bowel and bladder control is not a part of normal aging and often can be controlled.
Specialized programs exist to retrain a bladder and bowel function.
Check with your doctor or nurse for a program in your area. Many elderly become constipated due to medications and inactivity. If your care-receiver is experiencing this problem the doctor or nurse can suggest a stool softener. Avoid constipating foods like cheese, rice, bananas, etc. Be sure your doctor is aware of all the medications being taken.