Constipation in Older People: Causes and Gentle Ways to Help
What is constipation?
We all have around 25ft of digestive system inside of us, so it’s no surprise that sometimes things don’t work perfectly. Constipation is very common and is categorised as finding it “difficult to pass poo” or “passing poo less frequently than what is normal for you” according to Guts UK. “Your poo might be hard, dry or lumpy, and it can feel like you haven’t fully emptied your bowels.”
If struggling with your bowel habits is part of the difficulties you’re finding in your everyday life, Helping Hands can help. Our carers will support you to eat a varied diet, drink plenty of fluids, remain active, and maintain your routine, all of which can promote healthy digestive habits.
Why are older people more likely to get constipated?
Some of the triggers for constipation are unfortunately very common in older people. A lack of mobility, a reluctance to drink water due to continence concerns, or being unable to prepare nutritious meals may all have an impact on constipation.
Diet and fluid intake
Not eating enough fibre or other nutrients, as well as lack of fluids can cause constipation.
Reduced mobility
Having a low level of physical activity or sitting down for long periods can slow bowel movements.
Medications
Certain painkillers, iron supplements, and antacids list constipation as a side effect of use.
Health conditions
Irritable Bowel Syndrome is just one condition that can cause persistent constipation.
Signs and symptoms
Straining and pain when passing stools, hard, lumpy stools, or bloating can all indicate constipation.
Signs that are easy to miss
Communicating abdominal pain, discomfort or bloating may be difficult if the person is non-verbal.
Gentle ways to relieve and prevent constipation
It’s important to work gradually if you are changing someone’s routine to try and relieve constipation. It’s also important to consult a medical professional if there are any concerns around the person’s general health.
Drinking enough fluids
The person may be reluctant to drink because of concerns around continence, or fears about swallowing or choking.
Adding fibre gradually
Upping fibre intake should be done slowly, as too much at once may make the person’s stools too loose.
Staying active
If the person has mobility difficulties, adapting exercises, such as chair yoga or leg movements, may help.
Keeping a regular toilet routine
Many people always go to the loo at the same time every day, which often helps to keep them regular.
When to see a GP
According to Guts UK, “if you’ve tried making lifestyle changes and your constipation hasn’t improved after a couple of weeks, you should seek medical advice.” Contacting your GP, or calling 111, will give important advice and reassurance about what could be causing your – or a loved one’s – constipation. They also state that it’s important to seek medical advice sooner if you notice “blood in your poo or bleeding from your bottom, have lost weight unexpectedly, experiencing severe, constant belly pain or cramping, feel constantly tired, weak or dizzy,” or you’re experiencing “alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhoea.”
Discreet, dignified bowel care from Helping Hands
If you are living with bowel conditions such as Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or faecal incontinence, Helping Hands have decades of experience in supporting these conditions. Our amazing carers work tirelessly to ensure you live as independently as possible in the home you love, while our own in-house clinical nursing team manage your care package and ensure your carer has all the knowledge and training they need. Our bowel care services are available on both a visiting and live-in care basis and are fully regulated by the Care Quality Commission and Care Inspectorate Wales.
FAQs
Common bowel issues include constipation, diarrhoea, irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, haemorrhoids and faecal incontinence. It’s important to seek medical advice if your condition has changed.
The older we get, our activity levels usually decline, especially if mobility issues are present. This can impact on bowel health and digestion. It can also be caused by medications and diet.
Our in-house clinical nursing team will monitor the care packages of everyone living with a complex condition. They will also ensure that your handpicked carer has all the experience and knowledge necessary to care for you to the very highest standard. They will regularly review your care package and make sure that it continues to suit your needs.
It’s easy to get our carers supporting you in your own home. Calling our friendly customer care team, any day of the week, will enable you to learn all you need to know about our bowel care services. If you’d prefer to speak to one of our care managers face-to-face, you can pop into your local branch. We’ve got 155 of them across England and Wales.