Effectiveness of strategies to manage constipation in individuals of residential care facilities with dementia

Objectives The purpose of this systematic review is to critically analyse the literature to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions implemented in residential care facilities to manage constipation in people with dementia. Questions What is the effectiveness of interventions used to manage constipation in people with dementia living in residential care facilities? Inclusion Criteria Types of participants Participants will be any resident of an aged care facility with dementia receiving an intervention to manage constipation. Age will not be taken into consideration as there is debate whether age-related changes in physiology affect the occurrence or management of constipation. Types of interventions Any intervention undertaken to manage constipation will be considered in the review. Management may include the treatment or prevention of constipation, and it is anticipated that these interventions will be considered separately. Types of outcome measures The primary outcome for this review is the return to normal bowel function following intervention. Secondary outcomes may include behavioural changes, such as level of agitation, aggression and verbalisation, and pain expression.