Men… what are we going to do with them?

Men, with or without dementia, prefer to urinate standing up.  Anatomically speaking, it’s just the most natural position.

But there are times, like in the middle to late stages of dementia, when “aim” becomes an issue.  Specifically, an inability to aim correctly at the toilet.  The resulting puddle on the floor can become a real safety hazard, and leave an unpleasant, sticky film on your shoes.

Because it is highly unlikely that someone in the middle stage of dementia can learn a new technique (i.e. sitting on the toilet to urinate), modifications to the environment that may improve “aim” is usually the best course of action.

Adding contrast to the water against the white toilet bowl by placing a hanging toilet bowl cleaner in the tank provides a much brighter target.  Other contrasts might include a darker toilet seat or even painting the walls around the toilet a darker or brighter color so that the toilet stands out.

Placing a rug around the toilet is not usually recommended as it may serve as an unwanted target and it may also be a tripping hazard.

Give it a try and let me know what you think!