Gastrointestinal Disturbances in the Elderly

Gastrointestinal (GI) age-related changes create alterations in the body's ability to digest, absorb, and excrete nutrients, medications, and alcohol and disrupts GI immunity responses. All older adults exhibit some degree of swallowing difficulty, also known as senescent swallowing. The effects of chronic disease and sustained use of alcohol, tobacco, and medications often exacerbate age-related GI dysfunction. Older adults often have nonspecific complaints, warranting a thorough health history and physical examination, including prescription and over-the-counter medications. Colorectal cancer screening tests should be discussed with all older adults because of the high incidence of colorectal cancer in this patient population.