Constipation after 60: gentle fixes (and when to call)
Topic: Nutrition
Reading time: 3 min
Constipation is common after 60—often due to less movement, less fluid, diet changes, or medication side effects. The goal is to fix it gently and prevent it from becoming a weekly struggle.
First: define constipation
- Hard stools, straining, or feeling like you can’t fully empty
- Going less often than your usual pattern
- Bloating or discomfort that improves after a bowel movement
Three fixes that help many people
- Add fiber slowly: oatmeal, beans, chia, fruit. (Too fast can cause gas.)
- Hydrate: fiber needs fluid to work.
- Move daily: walking helps bowel motility more than you’d think.
Low-effort habit: A short walk after breakfast is a simple “bowel nudge” for many people.
Medication check
Many medications can cause constipation (certain pain meds, iron, some allergy meds, some antidepressants, and more). If constipation started after a new medication, ask about options.
When to call your clinician
- Constipation is new and persistent
- Severe abdominal pain, vomiting, fever
- Blood in stool or black/tarry stools
- Unintentional weight loss
Related: Medication review and Protein + fiber + hydration.
Ask your clinician (starter questions)
- “What’s the most likely explanation in my case?”
- “What serious causes are we ruling out?”
- “Could any medications or supplements contribute?”
- “What’s the simplest next step?”
- “What should make me call you sooner or seek urgent care?”
If you want to prepare for a visit, try the Doctor Visit Checklist. For general support, browse Topics or Common Issues.