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Updated: May 17, 2026
09:38
Determining Pain Detection and Tolerance Thresholds Using an Integrated, Multi-Modal Pain Task Battery
Published on: April 14, 2016
Perceptions of pain medication in the elderly.
Alison Leavitt1, William Van Schepen, Kelly Reilly Kroustos
1The Raabe College of Pharmacy, Ohio Northern University, Ada, Ohio 45810, USA.
Summary
Understanding pain perception in older adults is key to effective pain management. Addressing patient and provider views can improve therapy success and appropriate medication use in the elderly.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Pain Management
- Healthcare Disparities
Background:
- Individual pain perception varies significantly among patients and populations.
- Discrepancies in pain assessment between patients and healthcare providers can impact treatment outcomes.
- Effective pain management in the elderly requires understanding their unique emotional, physical, and perceptual experiences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the emotional, physical, and perceptual aspects of pain in the elderly population.
- To identify barriers to effective pain treatment in older adults.
- To provide a resource for geriatric practitioners to improve pain management strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on pain perception and management in the elderly.
- Analysis of factors influencing pain assessment and treatment.
- Synthesis of information on emotional, physical, and perceptual pain aspects.
Main Results:
- Pain interpretation is subjective and influenced by individual and population factors.
- Provider-patient assessment differences can hinder optimal pain management.
- Barriers to effective pain treatment in the elderly are multifaceted.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive understanding of elderly pain perception is crucial for effective management.
- Addressing assessment discrepancies and treatment barriers can improve therapeutic outcomes.
- This review offers insights for geriatric practitioners to optimize pain interventions for older adults.
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