Constipation in older adults: stepwise approach to keep things moving.

Constipation is a common complaint and challenge for older adults. The prevalence of constipation increases with age and differs among settings. In individuals 65 years of age or older in the community, the prevalence is 26% for women and 16% for men.1 This rate increases to 34% for women and 26% for men in those 84 years of age and older.1 For long-term care residents, the prevalence is as high as 80%.1,2 The objective of this article is to discuss a stepwise approach for the management of constipation in older adults. Clinical pearls for successful nonpharmacologic or lifestyle measures and pharmacotherapeutic tips are provided.