What are the solutions for constipation in the elderly?

Generally speaking, there is no single best solution for constipation in the elderly. Constipation in older adults may be caused by various factors such as an unreasonable diet structure, insufficient fluid intake, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis, and others. It can be managed through general measures, medication, and other treatments. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Unreasonable Diet Structure

Constipation in the elderly is often related to an unbalanced diet, such as inadequate dietary fiber intake, which leads to reduced stool volume and slowed intestinal motility. Increasing dietary fiber intake not only improves stool consistency, making it easier to pass, but also promotes intestinal movement and increases stool bulk, thereby relieving constipation. Foods such as raspberries, pears, apples, broccoli, and radishes can be consumed regularly to boost dietary fiber intake.

2. Insufficient Fluid Intake

Water is a key component of stool; insufficient hydration can cause stools to become dry and hard, making them difficult to pass. Ensuring adequate daily fluid intake helps keep stools moist and soft, reducing defecation difficulties. It is recommended to drink 1.5–2 liters of water per day.

3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Increased intestinal sensitivity and abnormal neuromuscular regulation in the gut may lead to IBS, resulting in constipation in the elderly, which may be accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal pain. Physical activity can improve blood circulation and accelerate metabolism, thus enhancing intestinal motility. Regular exercises such as slow walking or swimming may help relieve constipation. Additionally, under medical guidance, medications such as lactulose oral solution, bifidobacterium triple viable capsules, and loperamide hydrochloride capsules may be used for treatment.

4. Ulcerative Colitis

Immune imbalance in the intestine causes persistent inflammation, leading to mucosal congestion, edema, erosion, or even ulcers, which can impair intestinal motility and normal stool passage, resulting in constipation, possibly accompanied by bloating. As part of daily care, circular abdominal massage around the navel in a clockwise direction—no fewer than 30 circles each time—can be beneficial. Patients should take medications such as mesalazine enteric-coated tablets, azathioprine tablets, and enteritis relief granules under a doctor’s supervision.

5. Hypothyroidism

Long-term excessive iodine intake may lead to insufficient thyroid hormone secretion, causing hypothyroidism. When thyroid hormone levels are low, the body's metabolic rate slows down, gastrointestinal function is impaired, intestinal motility decreases, and more water is absorbed from the intestines, leading to dry, hard stools and constipation. This may be accompanied by symptoms such as cold intolerance. Iodine intake should be controlled, and under a doctor’s advice, medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid tablets, or methylprednisolone tablets may be prescribed for treatment.

The elderly should pay attention to adjusting their diet, maintaining sufficient fluid intake, engaging in regular physical activity, and performing abdominal massage, all of which help prevent and manage constipation.