Aging with an ostomy may bring about a few new challenges, but that doesn't mean you can't still enjoy your day-to-day activities. With the right supplies, practical strategies for ostomy care, and a supportive community, you can manage your stoma confidently while maintaining a fulfilling lifestyle at any age. Here, we'll go over some key information on the importance of caring for ostomies as you get older.
In this article, you'll learn:
- Ostomy needs increase with age due to conditions like colorectal cancer, bladder cancer, diverticulitis, IBD, or emergency surgeries.
- Older adults face unique challenges such as reduced dexterity, vision or hearing loss, fragile skin, and memory changes.
- Practical care tips include choosing gentle adhesives, simplifying routines with pre-cut wafers, protecting skin, staying hydrated, and planning for mobility needs.
- Emotional and social well-being matter; support groups, hobbies, exercise, and travel planning can help seniors stay active and connected.
- Some aging ostomates may benefit from caregivers if they experience frequent leaks, difficulty managing supplies, cognitive decline, or safety concerns.
- With the right supplies and support, seniors can thrive, and Byram Healthcare offers trusted ostomy products and resources to make care easier.
Why May Older Adults Need an Ostomy?
Conditions that may prompt the need for an ostomy can happen at any age. However, since certain medical conditions that affect the digestive or urinary system are more likely to appear later in life, ostomy surgery can become more common with age. Some of the most common reasons older adults may need an ostomy include:
- Colorectal cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Chronic urinary conditions
- Diverticulitis and bowel complications
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Emergency surgeries following bowel obstructions, perforations, or severe infections
If you require a colostomy, ileostomy, or urostomy at any point, it's important to understand the underlying causes and how surgery can help.
What Are Some Unique Challenges of Ostomy Care in Older Adults?
Caring for an ostomy comes with a learning curve at any age, but older adults may face a few additional challenges. Regardless of whether you've been living with an ostomy for years or you underwent surgery later in life, there are some factors to consider. This doesn't mean that you can’t live comfortably with an ostomy, just that your care routine may need a little extra attention and support as you get older.
Physical Changes and Challenges
With age, fine motor skills and dexterity can decline, making it more challenging to cut wafers, change two-piece pouches, or handle adhesives. Limited mobility or stiffness may also make it harder to reach the stoma area for cleaning and care. Working with your ostomy care nurse to find convenient products can help (i.e., switching to pre-cut wafers).
Vision Changes
Although not everyone's vision and hearing change as they age, declines are more common in older people. For those who experience decreased eyesight, it can be challenging to see whether the pouch is aligned correctly or if the skin barrier is properly sealed. If you're noticing any changes in your vision, don't hesitate to talk to your doctor.
Skin Fragility
As skin thins and becomes more delicate with age, you may become more prone to peristomal skin irritation, breakdown, or infections. This makes it especially important to choose gentle adhesives, use skin protectants, and perform regular skin checks. Your stoma nurse can also give you tips on how to care for the skin around your stoma based on your needs. If you experience frequent leakage, it's essential to work with your nurse to determine the cause and find a solution.
Cognitive and Memory Challenges
For seniors experiencing cognitive decline or dementia, remembering when to empty or change the pouch can be difficult. This can lead to leaks, discomfort, or even infections if not addressed with caregiver assistance or structured routines. If you or a loved one is showing signs of memory challenges, it's important to book an appointment with a doctor and consider the options.
Practical Ostomy Care Tips for Seniors
Living with an ostomy in your later years doesn't have to feel intimidating. With the right tools and strategies, it’s entirely possible to manage your stoma confidently and comfortably. In fact, many seniors discover that even minor adjustments in daily routines can make a big difference in overall quality of life. Here are a few tips to help you manage life with an ostomy at any age.
- Choose supplies that work with aging skin. Look for gentle adhesives, extended-wear barriers, or convex pouches if your skin has become thinner or more sensitive. A stoma nurse can help recommend ostomy products suited for senior skin.
- Protect fragile skin. Apply barrier wipes or sprays before attaching the pouch to shield delicate peristomal skin. Regularly check for redness, irritation, or breakdown as part of your skincare routine.
- Keep your routine simple. Minimize steps where possible. Pre-cut wafers or one-piece pouching systems can save time and reduce the need for fine motor skills.
- Use adaptive pouches and accessories. Tools like pouch covers, ostomy belts, or skin barrier rings can help improve comfort and reduce the risk of leaks. If arthritis makes cutting wafers difficult, try pre-sized options.
- Maintain hydration and a balanced diet. Seniors are at higher risk of dehydration, which can affect stoma output. Aim for steady fluid intake, and adjust food choices if certain items cause blockages or excess gas.
- Take medications into account. Some prescriptions may alter stool consistency or increase output. If you notice changes, discuss them with your healthcare provider to see if adjustments are needed.
- Plan for mobility challenges. Keep supplies within easy reach, and consider setting up a dedicated ostomy care station at home. If bending or standing for long periods is difficult, use a mirror or a stool for comfort.
- Set reminders for pouch changes. For those experiencing memory changes, using phone alarms, sticky notes, or caregiver check-ins can help prevent leaks or missed changes.
- Stay active within your limits. Gentle exercises like walking or stretching can support digestion and overall health. If you wear a support garment, it may help prevent hernias while staying active.
- Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Whether it’s a family member, caregiver, or visiting nurse, accepting assistance when needed can reduce stress and ensure your care remains consistent.
For more information, consider the Webinar from the United Ostomy Association of America (UOAA): Aging with an Ostomy and Continent Diversion.
Ostomy and Aging: Addressing Emotional and Social Well-Being
An ostomy doesn’t just bring physical changes; it can also impact how individuals feel about themselves and interact with others, regardless of age. Emotional health and social connections play a significant role in overall quality of life, especially for seniors who may already face feelings of isolation.
Ostomy support groups can have a big impact on an ostomate's mental health, so it's worth considering. Connecting with others who understand the ostomy journey can ease feelings of loneliness. Many organizations, such as the United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA), offer local and online groups that welcome older adults. These communities provide both education and encouragement, helping ostomates feel less alone and more empowered in their care routines. There are also plenty of options for virtual ostomy support if you're not able to attend in-person meetings.
It's also important to stay active whenever possible. Whether that's through gentle exercises, hobbies, volunteering, or group activities, being around others can improve both mood and physical health while reducing feelings of isolation.
Should Aging Ostomates Have a Caregiver?
Not every older adult with an ostomy will need a caregiver, but for many, having extra support can make day-to-day life easier and safer. Whether a caregiver is necessary often depends on your health, mobility, and ability to manage ostomy care independently. Ultimately, it's up to you and your loved ones, but getting a caregiver isn't something that should be viewed negatively. Here are a few signs that you may benefit from working with a caregiver:
- Difficulty managing supplies such as cutting wafers, sealing barriers, or applying adhesives.
- Frequent leaks or recurring skin irritation around the stoma.
- Declining vision, arthritis, or hand tremors that make pouch care challenging.
- Forgetting to empty or change the pouch due to memory loss or confusion.
- Limited mobility or balance issues that make it hard to reach the stoma safely.
- Complex health conditions or medications that complicate ostomy management.
- Increased anxiety, frustration, or withdrawal from social activities.
- Repeated infections, accidents, or hospital visits associated with ostomy care.
Whether in assisted living or at home, a caregiver can have a lasting effect on overall health and quality of life. If it's something you're interested in, talk to your doctor or stoma nurse about your options and ask for some recommendations.
Getting older with an ostomy doesn’t mean giving up on an active, meaningful life; it simply requires a little extra care and the right support. From protecting sensitive skin to finding encouragement in community groups, seniors can thrive with the right tools at hand. If you or a loved one is navigating ostomy care, Byram Healthcare is here to help. Browse our online ostomy product catalog and place an order today.
