Testing a middle-range theoretical model of adaptation to chronic pain

The purpose of this cross-sectional, correlational study was to test a middle-range theory of adaptation to chronic pain that was deduced from the Roy adaptation model using structural equation modeling. The sample consisted of 200 community-dwelling older adults with a mean age of 76. The Roy adaptation model theoretical framework provided an adequate fit to the data and supported the majority of the hypothesized relationships and findings from prior research. Significant direct effects, however, were found between both focal and contextual stimuli, suggesting that contextual stimuli need to be considered when developing a plan of care for older adults experiencing chronic pain.