What is a common intervention to manage constipation in older adults?

Increasing dietary fiber and fluid intake is a common and effective intervention for managing constipation in older adults. Fiber plays a crucial role in promoting bowel regularity by adding bulk to the stool, which helps to stimulate the intestines and facilitates easier passage. A higher fiber diet usually includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Moreover, adequate fluid intake is essential since it helps to soften the stool, making it easier to pass.

Older adults often face challenges such as lower fluid intake due to decreased thirst sensation, limited mobility, or medications that may lead to constipation. Therefore, encouraging both an increase in fiber and proper hydration is vital in preventing and alleviating constipation.

The other options do not support healthy bowel function. Decreasing dietary fluid could exacerbate constipation, avoiding carbohydrates entirely is unnecessary and not beneficial since many carbohydrate sources are also rich in fiber, and promoting sedentary activities would likely lead to worsening constipation due to reduced physical activity, which is important for stimulating digestion and bowel movements.