Secondary abstract: |
Basis, purpose: Obstipation can occur in any period of life. In our research, we identified the characteristics of the obstipated elderly, compared the frequency and treatment of obstipation and the nutrition among the elderly, who live at home and those, who are in institutional care.
Research methods: In the theoretical part of our degree paper, we used a descriptive work method with the help of local and foreign literature. In the research part, we used quantitative research methodology with a descriptive work method. We executed an intersective observational research. The information has been gathered using a survey.
Results: Among 100 elderly people, which have taken part the survey, there were 26 (26 %), who have problems with obstipation. We haven't found any statistically significant difference between the sexes, when it comes to problems with obstipation (p = 0,948). According to the survey respondents, the major issue is constipation, excreting small amounts of stool or pain during excretion. Mostly, the elderly cannot figure out in which cases they have an actual issue with constipation. Elderly people in institutional care are using pharmacological substances more often than others.
Discussion and conclusion: The biggest difference occurs in medical treatment of obstipation. 50 % (8) of the elderly in institutional care are being medicated using pharmacological substances (most commonly syrups), while only 1 (10 %) elderly person, living at home, is using pharmacological substances. 90 % (9) of the elderly, who are living at home, are being medicated using natural – alternative methods. Because the number of elderly people is steadily growing, we can expect even more people with obstipation problems in the future. |