Many systems of the body change with age, including the digestive system. It’s estimated that 40% of seniors experience digestive changes. 1 Many factors impact bowel health and result in constipation including age, medical conditions, poor diet, medications, lack of fiber, inadequate exercise and frequent laxative use. Constipation or diarrhea, a common complaint for seniors, is a symptom the body sends indicating that something is not right.3
What is Constipation? Simply stated, constipation is infrequent stool elimination. After eating, food is passed through the intestines by a rhythmic, wavelike movement called peristalsis. Intestinal contraction and rest allows food and liquid to be mixed together and propels fecal matter through the digestive tract for elimination. 4 Humans are creatures of habit, and bowel habits will vary. Bowel movements from 3 times per day to once every other day can be considered “normal”. Infrequent stools become hard, difficult to pass, and can cause damage to the nerves and muscles in the rectal area.4 Read more ›
Palliative care is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as an “approach that improves quality of life in patients and their families facing the problems associated with life-threatening illnesses”. 1 Palliative care focuses on prevention and relief from suffering, providing pain control, spiritual support and symptom control, done with respect for cultural differences and individual needs. Care decisions should be made through a process that involves open dialogue between patient, family and caregivers. 1 
