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My husband is very private. He takes Benefiber every day. I think he rarely has a full bowel movement and what he has is hard and small ( I think). He has on at least one occasion tried to digitally remove poop. When should I be concerned and what to do about it?

June 5, 2025
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A myALZteam Member

@A myALZteam Member
Yay! I give Mike 3 stool softeners with his evening meals. Keeping stool soft is so important.

June 12, 2025
A myALZteam Member

@A myALZteam Member: Chances are that the real issue may be that he’s not taking in enough liquids, especially if he’s having urinary incontinence issues and thinks the incontinence will improve if he drinks less. I have that problem with my own hubby, and I have to remind him to stay hydrated.

In the meantime, Colace is over the counter and inexpensive, and will help the stool to stay soft enough to pass; and if he likes corn, have some for dinner!

June 5, 2025 (edited)
A myALZteam Member

Unfortunately it is a progression of the disease by the end stage..both my mum and dad died having suffered with Alzheimer's and both were doubly incontinent at the end. It's so very hard to deal with but it's like a regression to childhood...that's how I viewed it anyway. My mum also started to refuse food at the care home she moved into. So her deterioration was rapid .she passed away 5 months after going into care. It was to be quite honest a relief as she had lost all ability to communicate and was in her own world. Try and get as much professional support as you can to help you through this really difficult stage . Sending hugs 🤗

June 8, 2025
A myALZteam Member

@A myALZteam Member: I'm so glad it did! Thanks for letting me know. Keep pushing the liquids, especially in these warm-weather months! A big hug to you.

June 11, 2025
A myALZteam Member

ValerieMcgiffford Thanks so much for this real life account. Sometimes it is so hard to know what to expect, so I want to hear from people who have gone through it. I have been putting more supports in place for me and for my husband, but it is a day to day "adventure". Hugs to you.

June 10, 2025

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