What should you do if a person with dementia is experiencing severe constipation

If a person with dementia is experiencing severe constipation, it’s important to act carefully and promptly to relieve their discomfort and prevent complications.

**Recognize the Signs of Severe Constipation**
Severe constipation can cause symptoms like hard, infrequent stools, abdominal pain, bloating, and difficulty passing stool. In some cases, there may be leaking of liquid stool or inability to pass gas. These signs need attention because they can lead to fecal impaction—a serious condition where stool becomes stuck in the rectum[2].

**What You Can Do at Home**
– **Increase Fiber Intake:** Offer foods rich in fiber such as fruits (like prunes), vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Prunes are especially effective for easing constipation[3].
– **Encourage Hydration:** Make sure the person drinks plenty of water throughout the day since dehydration worsens constipation[1][4].
– **Promote Gentle Physical Activity:** If possible, encourage light movement or walking as this helps stimulate bowel movements.

**Use Over-the-Counter Remedies Carefully**
– Stool softeners or mild laxatives may help soften stools and make them easier to pass but should be used cautiously under guidance from a healthcare provider because people with dementia might have other health issues or medications that interact poorly[1][2].

**When to Seek Medical Help Immediately**
Contact a doctor if:
– The person has constant abdominal pain or vomiting.
– They cannot have a bowel movement despite feeling an urge; especially if there is leaking liquid stool (a sign of blockage).
– There is blood in their stools or rectal bleeding.
– They show signs of fever or unintentional weight loss.

These symptoms could indicate fecal impaction requiring medical treatment such as enemas, suppositories, manual removal of impacted stool by professionals, prescription medications that promote bowel movements, or other interventions[2][4].

**Special Considerations for People with Dementia**
People with dementia may not communicate discomfort clearly and might resist care efforts due to confusion or fear. Patience and gentle reassurance are key when helping them manage constipation.

In summary: start by improving diet and hydration while encouraging activity; use mild remedies cautiously; watch closely for warning signs; seek medical care promptly if severe symptoms appear—this approach helps keep someone with dementia safe from complications related to severe constipation[1][2][4].