We all have our daily routines. Some rituals keep us efficient and organized, like rising to an alarm clock every morning or shaving while watching the morning news. Others, like eating a healthy breakfast or going to the gym for a daily workout, keep us balanced and healthy. It's these daily rituals that help bring order and peace-of-mind. And often, we accomplish our tasks and goals because we've worked them into a daily routine. Likewise, you can help keep your daily life free of additional stress and worry by creating a routine to manage bladder weakness. Here are six ideas to consider when establishing another practical routine for your day-to-day.

Keep It Routine!

• Keep “triggers” in check. Try to limit the amount of caffeine, carbonated beverages, alcohol, spicy foods, and acidic foods such as tomatoes and citrus fruits in your diet. These foods and drinks can trigger incontinence, resulting in worse symptoms and conditions for some people.
• Keep it moving. Add a bit of physical activity to your day. According to the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) 2006 report, nearly 50% of men over the age of 65 were classified as inactive! Inactivity can lead to being overweight (i.e., having a Body Mass Index > 25 or a waist circumference > 40” for men according to the Center for Disease Control), which can put a strain on your bladder and the supporting muscles nearby. Losing weight can help decrease your symptoms of incontinence, so take some time each day to get active!
• Keep Kegel-ing. Talk to your doctor about learning Kegel exercises. Even for men, these simple exercises strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, which can help you control urine flow. Kegel exercises should be done at least three times each day. You can order a special guide for men from the National Association for Continence (NAFC) at 1-800-BLADDER or at www.nafc.org.
• Keep protected daily and nightly. If you experience slight urine loss, try wearing DEPEND® Guards for Men in your tight-fitting underwear. They absorb leakage and odor, and prevent or reduce the likelihood of skin problems associated with urine exposure to the skin. If you have found that incontinence pads for regular or heavy urine loss are insufficient, try wearing new DEPEND® Underwear for Men or Fitted Maximum Protection. When it comes to today's protection, you just might be surprised. Styles have changed, and absorbency is trimmer, yet better than ever.
• Keep clean. Good personal hygiene is very important in managing incontinence. If you use absorbent incontinence products, and are not always able to wash with soap and water when changing your pad while away from home, keep moist wipes with you. You can pack several into plastic zipped bags and carry them in your duffle bag or briefcase.

Above All, Keep it Positive!

Every new day brings new opportunities for enjoyment. Try adding a few of these tips into your daily routine and keep doing the things you love to do!