However, several studies have shown no reduction in the frequency of bowel movements
with normal ageing. Among the elderly who do
complain of constipation, 52–65% report bowel movements
at least once daily, and only 2–7% describe moving
their bowels on no more than two occasions per
week. Furthermore, laxative use in these subjects has
been shown to be similar in individuals with and without
infrequent bowel movements, making laxative dependence
an unlikely explanation for the normal stool frequencies
seen in community-dwelling elderly people with
self-reported constipation