People are being recruited to test vibrating underwear at Bristol hospital
THERE is a buzz around the latest research project at Southmead Hospital.
People with incontinence are being recruited to help test vibrating underwear, which has been developed to trigger a buzzer if their incontinence pads leak.
There are also plans for a similar system to send a text message to a mobile phone as part of moves to improve the quality of life for people suffering incontinence.
The BioMed Centre at Southmead Hospital has put on trial a range of accessories that could make it easier for people to go out and about without fear of embarrassing problems.
As well as the underwear developed by Manchester and Brunel universities, patients are helping test a device developed in the city that detects the smell of urine.
The piece of plastic, developed by the University of the West of England and Brunel University, changes colour when it picks up the scent of ammonia.
It is so small it can be worn on a watch, keyring, bracelet or on a wallet.
People with incontinence can discreetly hold the device close to their lap while in public and if it changes colour they know they need to excuse themselves.
The device "smells" urine faster than the human nose and it should help carers know when someone's pad, clothing or bedding needs changing.
Researchers at the BioMed Centre need samples of urine so they can test the devices.
People who offer samples will receive a £10 Marks & Spencer voucher in return.
Incontinence can affect people of all ages as a result of age, medical conditions or injury and sometimes people may feel too embarrassed to leave home for fear of accidents.
Devices like those being tested at Southmead could help people lead more active lives again with the confidence that they will be alerted before a problem occurs.
Adele Long, director of the BioMed Centre, said: "People with continence difficulties are most worried about leakage and odour.
"These fears are often unfounded and can stop people from enjoying a normal social and working life.
"These devices will help make older people feel more confident in the knowledge that if they have a problem they can do something about it before anyone else notices.
"We are pleased to be part of this exciting project and we hope that it provides the breakthrough to help people who have difficulties with bladder control lead the life that they want and deserve."
People who are interested in finding out more about the trials can email Maryann Slack at maryann.slack@nbt.nhs.uk or call 0117 323 5188.
8 Comments
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by Dulcinea11, Bristol
Monday, September 06 2010, 11:10AM
“There¿s no harm in ¿avin a larf¿, but it would be a shame if by reinforcing the stereotypical view of incontinence you thereby discourage people from making valid comments. Even you will be old/frail/incontinent one day: in this enlightened age when taboos about the human body are gradually being broken down, be grateful to those who are brave enough to pave the way for you, such as (for example) the pioneering ¿Embarrassing Bodies¿ television programme. While you giggle at the screen, I'll bet you learn useful information which you store for future use.”
by Vicky Pollard, Bristol(fishpons)
Friday, September 03 2010, 4:26PM
“I wud try sum but i finks they looks a bit big for me im only a size 6 ere that wumuns email shud be maryannes slacks@nbt.nhs.uk”
by hannah, bristol
Friday, September 03 2010, 4:00PM
“'I-I-I-I G-G-G-G-O-T S-S-S-O-M-E”
by Nathan, Bristol
Friday, September 03 2010, 3:23PM
“Weak bladder? Ms Slack?
Is this some kind of joke?”
by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Somalia
Friday, September 03 2010, 12:57PM
“Where do I sign up for this?”