Have you been told that your digestive problems are “just part of getting older”? If so, you’re not alone. Many seniors struggle with persistent diarrhea, constipation, bloating, or abdominal pain—and far too often, they are dismissed with the idea that “this is normal at your age.”

The truth is, age is not the cause of your digestive problems. What matters is finding the right doctor who understands how to identify the underlying issues and provide the right treatment.

A Real Story: Urgent Diarrhea in an 87-Year-Old Patient

One of my recent patients, an 87-year-old woman, came to me after weeks of suffering from persistent, urgent diarrhea. She was exhausted, frustrated, and worried about leaving her home for fear of an accident.

Like many older adults, she had been told that her symptoms were “just part of aging.” But she knew something wasn’t right—and she refused to settle for that answer.

After a careful evaluation and personalized treatment plan, we were able to identify the cause of her diarrhea and resolve it. Today, she is back to her normal life—no more urgent trips to the bathroom, no more fear of leaving the house.

This is a powerful reminder that digestive symptoms in seniors are not caused by age itself. They always have a reason, and with the right help, they can be treated.

Common Digestive Problems in Seniors

Digestive issues are common in older adults, but they are not inevitable. Some of the most frequent problems include:

• Chronic diarrhea – sudden or urgent episodes that disrupt daily life.

• Constipation – difficulty passing stool, often worsened by medications.

• IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) – abdominal pain, bloating, and irregular bowel habits.

• Food intolerances – sensitivities to gluten, dairy, or other foods.

• Gut infections or imbalances – bacterial, yeast, or parasitic overgrowth.

If you are experiencing any of these, don’t let anyone tell you it’s “normal for your age.” These conditions have solutions.

Why Seniors Are Often Dismissed

Unfortunately, older patients are sometimes overlooked when it comes to digestive care. Doctors may blame medications, reduced activity, or “just aging.” While these factors can contribute, they are rarely the whole story.

The real issue is that the root cause is not being addressed. Whether it’s a food sensitivity, an imbalance in gut bacteria, or another hidden trigger, your symptoms deserve thorough investigation.

Don’t Let Age Hold You Back

Digestive health matters at every stage of life. Whether you are 67, 77, or 87, you deserve to feel comfortable, confident, and in control of your body.

If you or a loved one is struggling with:

• Persistent diarrhea

• Unexplained constipation

• Abdominal pain or bloating

• IBS-like symptoms

…know that answers are available.

The Bottom Line

My 87-year-old patient is living proof: it’s not about age, it’s about having the right doctor and the right approach. And she’s not the only one. We see A LOT of patients in their 70’s and beyond, and they consistently get better.

Don’t let anyone use age as an excuse for your digestive problems. If you’re struggling, seek out a specialist who will listen, dig deeper, and help you find real solutions.

Your digestive health can be restored—at any age.

Related Content:

Is Age the Cause of Your Digestive Problems?

The 5 Major Obstacles to Solving Your IBS

Can I Have IBS and IBD?

How Do I Know If I Have IBS?‍