Is it normal for a person with dementia to go many days without a bowel movement?

Jennifer, it depends on how inactive the dementia patient might be.... no exercise, thus less food intake could make it days before there is a movement. Walking is suppose to be good for digestion but I know that isn't always possible for some elders.

Would the patient be able to tell you if they are constipated?

Thank you for your answer. She is in the later stages of Dementia and walking much less. She would not be able to tell me if she is constipated.

Try some Miralax in the evening. It mixes in with any drink and is odorless and tasteless. I'd try half a cap to start. If that doesn't work go to 3/4 a cap. If that doesn't work go to a full cap (which is recommended on the label). Like any stool softener it can affect different people in different ways. Starting out slow might prevent a day of messes and a ton of laundry.

Miralax is expensive. Like $19 a bottle. But if you can get your loved one's Dr. to write a scrip it will be less expensive.

Good luck!

Stores such as Walmart and Publix have generic versions of Miralax that cost much less. They are the same thing. A prescription would be good if insurance will cover it. I'm kind of lazy, though, so I like to just pick up some of the generic while grocery shopping. Picking up a prescription or having it delivered is a bit more of a pain for the small savings. (I have to make sure I'm home the whole afternoon when expecting a delivery. Plus there is the tip.)

If your looking to avoid more meds, dried apricots will get the job done. For an everyday but taking pills regularly I give 2. For an issue I'd bump it up to 4 maybe 5 depending. Wouldn't really go over that or they may be on the toilet every 15 minutes. It's not instantaneous but pretty reliable.

A good romaine salad might help, too. It provides bulk and vitamins. The romaine is a good natural stimulant. Bet it would be good with an apricot on the side.

Does she have hypothyroidism? If so, then she may need a medication adjustment because undertreated hypothyroidism can cause constipation.

Talk to the doctor about Lactulose. It's an expensive prescription for getting the bowls going.

My mother has vascular dementia and hypothyroid disease and both cause issues with constipation.

Thank you everyone for your answers. All are very good remedies. I do want to take it a bit slower as when she was healthy she had stomach issues that worked in the opposite direction. Thank you again.