An older adult client is being discharged home after being admitted with a large bowel obstruction. What education should the nurse provide to the client to prevent future gastrointestinal problems such as constipation? Select all that apply.

Constipation prevention in older adults requires optimization of intestinal motility, dietary fiber intake, hydration status, and physical activity to enhance peristalsis and stool bulk formation while reducing colonic transit time and minimizing risk of fecal impaction and recurrent bowel obstruction episodes. Rationale: A. Adequate water intake supports hydration balance and softens stool by increasing water content in the colon. This improves stool passage and reduces fecal impaction risk. Dehydration is a major contributor to constipation in older adults, especially after bowel obstruction recovery. B. Avoiding decaffeinated beverages is incorrect because caffeine-free fluids still contribute to hydration. Restricting decaffeinated drinks unnecessarily reduces total fluid intake. Adequate fluid consumption from all non-irritating sources supports bowel motility and prevents stool hardening in recovery patients. C. High fiber intake increases stool bulk and stimulates colonic peristalsis through mechanical distension of intestinal walls. Soluble and insoluble fiber improve bowel regularity and reduce constipation risk. Fiber also enhances water retention in stool improving consistency and ease of passage. D. Low-residue diet decreases fecal volume and is used short term in acute bowel conditions. Long-term use reduces fiber intake and worsens constipation risk. It is contraindicated for prevention of chronic gastrointestinal hypomotility and does not support bowel regularity maintenance. E. Regular physical activity promotes intestinal motility by stimulating peristaltic movement through increased abdominal muscle engagement. Sedentary behavior slows colonic transit time. Mobilization is essential in older adults to maintain bowel function and prevent recurrent constipation after gastrointestinal obstruction recovery.