Constipation is a problem with the elderly for several reasons: decreased activity, changes in fluid consumption, changes in diet, abuse of laxatives, inability to get up and use the bathroom when needed, and some medications. 

To aid in preventing constipation there are several things to remember. 

1). Drink plenty of fluids.  It is recommended to drink 1.5 - 2 quarts of decaffinated fluid per day. 

2). Increase activity if possible. 

3). Increase the fiber content by adding a fiber supplement.  There are plenty of powdered fiber supplements available now that are very gentle and easy to mix with food.  Products using psyllium (sill-e-um) may cause problems with bloating and gas. Psyllium can also cause thicking of fluids and make it undesirable.  Look for products that contain other forms of dietary fiber like guar gum.  This is called "soluble fiber" which means that they easily mix with water.

4). Use liquid nutritional supplements, as prescribed, that contain added fiber.

5). If an alternative medication is available, ask your primary care physician to prescribe one.

Constipation can be very painful, as we all know, and has some serious side effects.  It is not uncommon for our elderly parents to be admitted to a hospital due to severe constipation or impaction.

Please feel free to email me with any specific questions you may have at teresaulrich@yahoo.com.