Measures adopted to overcome constipation by residents of elderly homes

ABSTRACT

Constipation is a common problem encountered by elderly persons. This study aimed to determine measures adopted to overcome constipation by residents of elderly homes in Alexandria. The study was carried out in all governmental elderly homes in Alexandria. All elders aged 60 years and more and able to communicate were included in the study. Their number amounted to 178 elderly persons. The results revealed that nearly half of the residents suffered from constipation. The main factors affecting its occurrence were that amount of fluid consumed daily, fibre intake in diet, activity pattern of the elderly, gastrointestinal diseases and type of drug intake. It can be concluded from the study that constipation is a problem and is not considered as a normal part of the aging process