Management of Gastrointestinal System Disorders in the Older Adult

Von Kimberly Posey, AGPCNP-BC, DNP, PhD, GS-C

(1)

Gastrointestinal gerontology explores the complex relationship between aging and digestive system function, examining how physiological changes in older adults affect the presentation, diagnosis, and management of gastrointestinal disorders. The aging digestive tract undergoes numerous alterations—including decreased motility, reduced secretory capacity, diminished mucosal immunity, and changes in gut microbiome—creating a distinct pathophysiological environment that transforms how common conditions manifest and respond to interventions. Understanding these age-specific variations is essential for all clinicians who care for elderly patients, as gastrointestinal complaints represent some of the most common yet potentially serious health concerns in this population.

This course builds upon foundational knowledge of gastrointestinal anatomy and physiology, requiring students to understand normal digestive processes before examining their age-related modifications. Students will learn the unique considerations in managing hernias, constipation, diarrhea (including C. difficile infections), and diverticulitis in older adults, along with specialized approaches to nutritional support and pain management specific to this population. The course bridges basic science concepts with practical clinical applications, emphasizing evidence-based strategies that account for the physiological limitations, comorbidities, and quality-of-life concerns common in elderly patients. These principles are broadly applicable across primary care, gastroenterology, geriatrics, and surgical specialties, providing essential tools for comprehensive care of the aging digestive system.