The Importance of Digestive Health for Seniors: Understanding the Ageing Digestive System

Maintaining good digestive health is crucial to the overall well-being and quality of life of seniors. Like all other body systems, the digestive system also undergoes changes due to ageing, making digestive issues common among older adults.

However, many seniors may be unaware of why these changes occur or how to address them.

Let's explore the importance of digestive health for seniors and delve into how the ageing digestive system works.

Why is digestive health important in the elderly

Digestive health is important in the elderly for several reasons.

• The ageing digestive system undergoes changes that can increase the risk of digestive problems like constipation and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which cause discomfort and pain and affect the individual's quality of life.
• Good digestive health is essential for absorbing nutrients from food, which may get compromised in older adults due to ageing changes in the gut lining and increased stomach acid production. This may lead to malnutrition.
• Research has shown that the bacteria that live in your gut play an important role in overall health and immune function. Changes in the balance of good and bad bacteria in older adults can contribute to chronic health issues such as inflammation and cognitive decline.
• By supporting digestive health, seniors can reduce their risk of digestive problems, improve nutrient absorption, and support overall health and well-being.

Ageing and digestive health

With age, the digestive system undergoes several natural changes that can impact digestive health.

These include:

• Reduced saliva production: With age, saliva production decreases, making swallowing and digesting food more difficult.
• Weakened oesophageal muscles: The muscles in the oesophagus that help move food from the mouth to the stomach can weaken, leading to difficulty swallowing and an increased risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
• Increased stomach acid production: With age, the stomach may produce more acid, affecting digestion of protein.
• Slower intestinal motility: The muscles in the intestines that help move food through the digestive system can slow down with age, leading to constipation and other digestive problems.
• Decreased absorption of nutrients: The ageing digestive system may have decreased ability to absorb certain nutrients, such as vitamin B12 and calcium, which can lead to deficiencies.

Common digestive ailments among the elderly

1. Constipation

This is a common problem among seniors and can be caused by a lack of physical activity, low-fibre diets, dehydration, and medications.

2. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

In this condition, the stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms. Seniors may be more prone to GERD due to a weakened lower oesophageal sphincter (a group of muscles between the food pipe and the stomach) and increased stomach acid production.

3. Diverticulitis

This is a condition in which small pouches in the colon bulge out and become inflamed and infected, causing abdominal pain, bloating and changes in bowel habits. Seniors may be more prone to diverticulitis due to weakened colon muscles and a low-fibre diet.

4. Ulcers

These are sores that develop in the lining of the stomach or small intestine, causing pain and discomfort. Seniors may be more prone to ulcers due to infection and long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

5. Diarrhoea

This is a common problem among seniors and can be caused by infections, medications, indigestion and changes in diet.

6. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Seniors who are overweight or obese tend to have high triglyceride or blood sugar level, which puts them at an increased risk for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. This is the most common type of liver disease and causes scarring of the liver. Patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease may develop liver cancer or failure if not detected and treated in time.

7. Colon cancer

Colon cancer risk increases after the age of 50. This is why colon cancer screening is recommended post-50. A colonoscopy helps identify an individual's risk of developing polyps and check for the ones that may show the potential to turn cancerous.

Tips for seniors to ensure a healthy digestive system

1. Eating a healthy and balanced diet

Seniors should consume plenty of fibre-rich fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to support their digestive health.

2. Avoid foods that can cause or aggravate acidity

Some foods can trigger acidity or increase the chances of acid reflux or heartburn. Different foods can irritate the digestive system in people.

While milk and dairy may irritate the digestive tract of a few people, others may develop gluten allergy or intolerance with age. Seniors must be able to identify what irritates their digestive system and steer clear of it.

3. Take probiotics

The digestive system has good bacteria that help digestion and strengthen immunity. Yes, you read that right!

Some bacteria are beneficial, which can be found in some foods called probiotics. People with digestive issues are advised to consume probiotic foods like yoghurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, miso, and tempeh.

4. Staying active

Regular physical activity can promote healthy bowel movements and prevent constipation.

5. Taking medications as directed

Seniors should take medications as directed and discuss any potential digestive side effects with their healthcare provider.

6. Staying hydrated

Seniors should drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine and alcohol consumption, which can dehydrate the body and lead to digestive problems.

7. Managing stress

Stress can affect digestive health, so seniors should find ways to bust their stress. Relaxation practises like meditation, yoga, or talking to a therapist.

8. Getting regular check-ups

Seniors should receive regular check-ups with their healthcare provider to monitor their digestive health and identify any potential problems early.

9. Avoiding smoking

Smoking can cause a variety of digestive problems, including ulcers and acid reflux, so seniors should avoid smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke.

Conclusion

Digestive health is crucial for seniors because the natural changes that occur in the digestive system with age can lead to a range of digestive problems and disorders.

Hence, seniors need to prioritise their digestive health by making lifestyle changes. Probiotic-rich foods are an essential part of keeping the digestive system healthy, along with other measures.

These changes can not only help seniors improve their digestive health, but also help them improve their overall quality of life.