Anyone have an Alzheimer's loved one who does not have regular bowel movements?

With decreased input there is also decreased output. Our nurses say to try to get mom to go every 3 to 5 days. It is a constant struggle to try and balance between diarrhea (my nightmare days) and no movement for 6 or 7 days. Make sure she/he drinks a reasonable amount, (if they are urinating often or soaking their depends then you know it's enough), include fibre in the diet (prunes, whole grain cereals etc) and don't be afraid to use polyethylene glycol (miralax) daily if needed. When all else fails I reach for milk of magnesia.

Actually, the 32 oz of water plumped up her poop, according to her doctor, making it easier to go. And a side benefit of drinking lots of water (which we all already know is absolutely necessary for life) is that is has been proven to help with memory. Water is necessary for all the organs to function properly.

32 oz of liquids a day will only produce urine, no poop.

We give her a mild stool softener every other evening before bed. We started with one every evening, but were able to cut back. We just used an over-the-counter Walgreen's brand. We also fill a 32 oz measuring cup, so she will have a visual, and we pour four ounces in a paper cup eight times during the day and make sure she drinks it. She sees her goal, and it seems to help her feel good about herself!