The constipation quandary

Constipation. It's uncomfortable, worrisome and, unhappily, a common problem in the elderly. In the largest study to date, for instance, 21 to 34 per cent of American women over 65 years reported experiencing it, as did nine to 20 per cent of the men. Elders are particularly at risk of becoming constipated because of age-related changes like weakening of the intestinal muscles, decreased peristalsis and altered activity. This risk is magnified in individuals with hypotonic colon function or central nervous system lesions, and in those who are immobilized and debilitated.