This study aimed to clarify the process of selecting a laxative and state of bowel movement and management after consuming laxatives among five female students with constipation. Participants who experienced difficulty in bowel movement and became aware of health patterns or conditions that affect bowel movement chose a laxative based on parental recommendation or advertisements regarding the efficacy of a laxative. They reported that the state of their bowel movement after using laxatives improved in terms of frequency, but they also experienced bowel movements different from normal ones and the worsening of bowel movement and general physical condition after discontinuing laxatives. In addition, they reported that determining the dose of laxatives based on the state of the bowel movement was important. Furthermore, although they reported feeling satisfied and relieved regarding the state of their bowel movement after using laxatives, they also reported anxiety regarding excessive stimulation of bowel movement and adverse effects. For safe laxative use and effective health behavior, support to improve bowel movements should be based on careful investigation of the subject's background characteristics, state of bowel movement, and adverse effects of laxatives.

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Dementia is a progressive terminal condition for which there is no cure. Alzheimer's disease is prevalent in 60–80% of all dementias. Those with Alzheimer's disease may suffer from well-intentioned, albeit uncomfortable treatments and nursing interventions, particularly as the person encounters increasing physical and mental decline and approaches the end-of-life. As the progression of dementia robs a person of their memory, ability to speak, and care for themselves, nursing professionals and family caregivers may not know the best practices in caring for these individuals. This paper incorporates a case study with an interdisciplinary team approach to illustrate the possibilities in providing positive caring interventions for the person with advanced dementia.

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[in Japanese]

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