Efforts in realizing quality lifestyles among children experiencing incontinence in refugee settlements: A case of Adjumani refugee settlements in Uganda

Incontinence is known to affect all aspects of one’s life especially that of children, their caregivers and family members. Taking care of someone experiencing involuntary self-wetting is quite challenging in terms of ensuring good hygiene. It is time consuming and mentally straining. There are a number of coping mechanisms which are also consuming in terms of time and finances. Routines have to be adhered to, in order to manage incontinence and avoid embarrassment, stigmas, social, economic and psychological isolation. Various countries have, adopted and considered coming up with programs designed to provide functional facilities that can be used by those affected. Facilities include inclusion of ramps for the disabled, easy to access WASH or toilet facilities with clean water and assistive devices for the deaf, blind and other disabilities. The study therefore aimed at identifying the efforts or strategies adopted or used and highlighting the programs supporting children experiencing incontinence. It further aimed at examining the roles of stakeholders in supporting children with incontinence. The study further proposes recommendations to improve the services provided. Through a qualitative approach, the researchers collected data using Key Informant Interviews and Focus Group Discussions. The respondents who took part in the study were children with incontinence, their caregivers and the community in which they live. Persons working for organizations that provide any form of support were also included. The respondents were purposively chosen. The study findings show that respondents are aware of incontinence and the available facilities in place. These organizations work towards having facilities in place but the facilities are not convenient for children. They do not have ramps; the path ways are not convenient for aided tools like wheelchairs to go through. Children are forced to use open spaces which gives the caregivers a lot of work to clean up after the children. From the study several solutions are recommended ranging from strengthening partnerships with various stakeholders to designing WASH facilities to cater for children as well as the provision of medical care to treat diseases like ringworms, provision of psychological support, building capacity on management of incontinence as well as counselling and guidance.