Changes in gastrointestinal motor and sensory function associated with ageing

This chapter reviews changes in gastrointestinal motor and sensory function associated with healthy ageing, together with what is known about the underlying causes and their clinical significance. Illnesses with gastrointestinal complications that are common in the elderly are also discussed, along with medications that potentially affect gastrointestinal motility. The focus is on the oesophagus, stomach and small intestine, since the oropharynx (Chapter 59, Communication disorders and dysphagia), gallbladder (Chapter 23, Liver and gallbladder) and colon and anorectum (Chapter 24, Sphincter function, and Chapter 25, Constipation) are dealt with elsewhere, as are mucosal functions of secretion and absorption.Christopher K. Rayner and Michael Horowit