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Chronic pain in older adults
Esther I Bernhofer1, Jeanne M Sorrell
1Nursing Institute Quality and Patient Safety, Cleveland, Ohio, USA. bernhoe@ccf.org
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services
|January 11, 2012
Summary
Older adults often suffer from chronic pain, impacting their quality of life. Healthcare providers need specialized knowledge for effective pain management in this population.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Pain Management
- Healthcare Research
Background:
- Chronic pain affects many individuals, particularly older adults, despite advanced treatments.
- Inadequate pain management significantly diminishes the quality of life for affected patients.
- Understanding the physiological changes associated with chronic pain in older adults is an evolving area of research.
Observation:
- Healthcare providers are increasingly recognizing the unique challenges of managing chronic pain in the elderly.
- There is a growing awareness of the structural and functional alterations in older adults experiencing chronic pain.
- Nurses and other health professionals require specific education on the distinct needs of geriatric patients with chronic pain.
Findings:
- Older adults with chronic pain often have unique physiological and functional changes.
- Current understanding of these changes among healthcare professionals is still developing.
- A knowledge gap exists regarding specialized pain management strategies for the geriatric population.
Implications:
- Healthcare professionals must adapt their approach to effectively manage chronic pain in older adults.
- Enhanced training is crucial for nurses and other providers to address the specific needs of elderly patients.
- Improved knowledge and tailored interventions can prevent unnecessary suffering and enhance patient outcomes.
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