Everyday Wellness: Boosting Confidence
General Interest
In today’s world, staying active, confident, and preserving our dignity is central to our overall wellbeing. Products designed to support these aspects of life are becoming increasingly important, especially for individuals managing conditions like incontinence. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has identified urinary incontinence as a significant global health issue, one that can negatively impact self-esteem, cause social isolation, and even contribute to depression. Incontinence, often accompanied by embarrassment and shame, is more common than many people realise, affecting individuals of all ages and genders, from children to the elderly.
The Psychological Impact
For many, the psychological effects of incontinence can be as challenging as the physical symptoms. The loss of control over one’s body, combined with the discomfort and embarrassment it brings, can significantly erode confidence and self-worth. This emotional strain often leads to social withdrawal, increasing feelings of isolation, anxiety, and stress, which further diminish overall wellbeing. These factors highlight the need for products that address not only the physical aspects of incontinence but also support dignity, confidence, and mental health.
The Environmental Toll
While disposable incontinence products have long been the go-to solution, their environmental impact is increasingly concerning. These products contribute substantially to global waste, often surpassing the volume of disposable baby diapers. By 2030, waste from adult incontinence products is expected to increase tenfold, further burdening waste management systems. This challenge has prompted a search for more sustainable alternatives - products that not only support individuals’ health and dignity but also reduce environmental harm.
Reusable incontinence products, such as incontinence underwear, have emerged as a viable eco-friendly solution. These products not only reduce environmental impact but also provide greater comfort and reliability. They enable individuals to live more sustainably without sacrificing comfort, offering users the confidence to go about their daily routines and lives.
In Search of Solutions
A registered nurse with over 25 years of experience in the surgical field, Liisa McLellan, founded Contiflow after witnessing the embarrassment and discomfort many patients experienced while managing bladder leaks. Driven by a desire to find a better solution, Liisa developed a product that was comfortable and environmentally friendly.
A key focus of Liisa’s research was the lack of suitable incontinence options for men. Many male patients were prescribed disposable, nappy-style underwear, which often caused discomfort and exacerbated feelings of embarrassment. Liisa set out to create a product that would offer comfort, privacy, and dignity for all individuals - regardless of gender - while also being environmentally conscious. The Contiflow underwear is made from organic cotton and non-toxic materials, reducing the risk of irritation or infection, which is common with disposable products that often contain harsh chemicals.
Generus Living has partnered with Liisa McLellan, founder of Contiflow, to introduce sustainable products and boost everyday wellness. Liisa has visited several Generus Living villages to introduce her products, and the feedback from independent living residents has been overwhelmingly positive.
Generus Living Waste Minimisation Case Study:
Generus Living is now conducting a case study in the Bay of Plenty to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of integrating reusable incontinence underwear into care and assisted living environments. The initiative aims to not only reduce waste in healthcare settings but also provide residents with greater autonomy, independence, and renewed confidence in their daily lives.
This case study is part of a broader waste minimisation project at Te Manaaki Care Centre at Pacific Coast Village. “Pacific Coast Village has achieved an impressive 96% diversion rate from landfill in its village operations over the past years, and we are now extending this success to the newly opened Care Centre, setting a new benchmark for waste reduction in care settings,” says Liane Leesment, Sustainability & Operations Manager at Generus.
By focusing on sustainable solutions and minimising waste, Generus Living is leading the way in creating more environmentally responsible, empowering, and innovative care environments.
This article is from the latest issue of Sustainable Retirement Living Magazine - click here to explore the magazine.
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