Evaluating Korean Medicine Interventions for Elderly Constipation: A Scoping Review

Objectives: To review the current evidence on Korean medicine interventions for constipation in older adults.Methods: Following the Arksey and O’Malley framework and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, five databases (Cochrane, PubMed, KISS, OASIS, and RISS) were searched up to September 2025. Studies targeting older adults (≥60 or 65 years) and applying acupuncture, moxibustion, or herbal medicines were included.Results: Twenty-six studies met the inclusion criteria: 12 RCTs, 10 quasi-experimental studies, 3 case reports, and 1 review. Interventions included acupuncture (22), moxibustion (9), and herbal medicines (7), mainly in combination. Common outcomes-including defecation frequency, stool form, and constipation scores—showed significant improvement. Adverse events were mild and transient.Conclusions: Korean medicine therapies appear safe and effective for constipation in older adults, although standardized measures and higher-quality trials are required to reinforce clinical evidence.