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When you’re caring for someone, the right information and support can make a big difference. Find expert advice, practical tips and support options to help you feel confident, connected and supported in your caring role.
Caring for someone experiencing incontinence can be challenging. You may have questions about managing bladder or bowel control issues, finding the right continence products, accessing professional support or simply finding time to look after yourself.
When you’re focused on caring for someone else, it can be easy to put your own needs aside. Looking after your own health and wellbeing is important too.
Consider your emotional and social wellbeing
Incontinence can affect the emotional and social wellbeing of both the person experiencing it and the people who care for them. Feelings of frustration, grief, anxiety or being overwhelmed can happen. Recognising how you’re feeling and reaching out for support when you need it can help.
“If there is one piece of advice I could give to other carers, it’s to reach out and use support. You can’t pour from an empty cup. Whatever makes you feel good, you should do it and not feel guilty about it.”
Keren Franks, Carer of the Year 2025
Choose continence products
A nurse continence specialist can help you find the right continence products to suit the person’s mobility (movement), body shape and level of support needed. Call the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66 for information and support.
Learn more about continence products or search our directory of product providers.
Access funding
The Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS) provides financial support for eligible people to help pay for continence products and other aids. This may be helpful for the people you care for.
View options for financial assistance including other funding schemes in some states.
Consider your emotional and mental wellbeing
The Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS) provides financial support for eligible people to help pay for continence products and other aids.
View options for financial assistance including other funding schemes in some states.
The National Continence Helpline (1800 33 00 66) can provide advice if you have questions about how to access financial support.
If you or the person you care for are struggling, reach out to your GP (doctor) or call the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66 to talk to a nurse continence specialist. Support is available, and things can improve.
Tips for looking after yourself while caring for someone
Stay connected
Looking after your own interests and relationships outside your caring role is not just important, it’s essential. Spending time with friends and doing things you enjoy helps restore your energy. While caring responsibilities can make this feel hard, taking some time out for yourself supports your wellbeing and helps you continue caring with compassion.
Talk to someone
Talk to someone who understands. Whether it’s a friend, another carer or a support group, sharing your experience can help manage the harder times.
Carers Australia can put you in touch with other carers.
Carer Gateway has a helpline 1800 422 737 and free services and support, provided by the Australian Government.
Stay healthy
Make time for regular exercise, healthy meals and rest. Protect your back when lifting.
Practise relaxation
Practise relaxation
Even 15 minutes a day can help. Listen to music, sit quietly or enjoy nature whatever helps you feel relaxed and happy.
Take breaks
Respite care isn’t just a break for you – it’s also an opportunity for the person you care for to enjoy new experiences and meet new people. Whether it’s in-home, community-based or residential, respite services are designed to support both carers and those they care for. Respite for a few hours or a weekend away can help you care for the longer term.
Visit Carer Gateway for more information.
Carers Australia also has programs to support the health and wellbeing of carers.
“If anyone offers help, take it. If they don’t, ask for help and let them know what you need. As well as getting help from people around you, seeking the right professional support was important as Mum’s needs changed.”
Muoy Kucan, Carer of the Year 2026
Celebrating our Carers of the Year
Each year, Continence Health Australia recognises an outstanding carer who has made a meaningful difference in the life of someone they care for. Their stories shine a light on the dedication of unpaid carers across Australia and the importance of ensuring carers receive the recognition, information and support they need too.
This content has been reviewed by subject matter experts in line with Continence Health Australia’s established process. Read about our clinical content review protocol.