Keywords
constipation; constipation/prevention and control; constipation/diet therapy; constipation/drug therapy; dietary fiber; laxatives; aged; elderly
Disciplines
Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition | Digestive, Oral, and Skin Physiology | Digestive System Diseases | Geriatric Nursing | Medical Nutrition | Medical Pharmacology | Pathological Conditions, Signs and Symptoms
Abstract
Constipation is a common condition among geriatric patients with different presenting symptoms and potential serious complications. Additionally, the condition causes a significant burden on our healthcare system. Here, we summarized recommendations from several societies, including the American College of Gastroenterology, American Geriatrics Society, and American Academy of Family Physicians to provide guidance on managing constipation with geriatric patients. Our aim was to emphasize the importance of prevention of constipation in this population and methods to do so. We also give recommendations on how to manage constipation when it does develop and how to manage it across different healthcare settings. These recommendations should aid providers in managing this prevalent and burdensome condition.
Recommended Citation
Jones, William G.; Jonnalagadda, Veeraen; Thomson, Alexandra E.; Grumbles, Victoria; Cottle, Chase; Robertson, Christian; and Patel, Maulikkumar
(2025)
"A Hard Problem: Managing Constipation in the Geriatric Population,"
HCA Healthcare Journal of Medicine: Vol. 6:
Iss.
4, Article 2.
DOI: 10.36518/2689-0216.1955
Available at:
https://scholarlycommons.hcahealthcare.com/hcahealthcarejournal/vol6/iss4/2
Included in
Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Commons, Digestive, Oral, and Skin Physiology Commons, Digestive System Diseases Commons, Geriatric Nursing Commons, Medical Nutrition Commons, Medical Pharmacology Commons, Pathological Conditions, Signs and Symptoms Commons
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