Whatever the explanation, this concern with constipation
is undoubtedly a major reason behind the high usage
of laxatives in older people. Laxatives are the second
most commonly acquired ‘over-the-counter’ medication
by older people, with a third using them at least weekly.
But self medication is not the sole reason for extensive
laxative use by older people—76% of hospitalised
elderly patients and 74% of nursing home residents are
prescribed at least one type of laxative.This high
usage is not confined to those who consider themselves
constipated—between a fifth and a third of regular laxative
users do not consider themselves constipated,
many taking laxatives in a misguided belief in the benefits
of regular purgation.