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Treatment Modalities for Chronic Pain in Elderly Patients With Depression: A Systematic Review
Soroush Pakniyat-Jahromi1,2,3, Ralph Amazan1,2, Eric Garrels1,2
1BronxCare Health System, Bronx, New York.
The Primary Care Companion for CNS Disorders
|May 27, 2022
Summary
Managing chronic pain and depression in elderly patients requires individualized care. Early screening for both conditions is vital due to their link to increased suicide risk.
Area of Science:
- Geriatrics
- Psychiatry
- Pain Management
Background:
- Chronic pain and depression frequently co-occur in elderly individuals.
- This dual diagnosis presents significant challenges in management and impacts quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions for chronic pain in elderly patients with depression.
- To synthesize current evidence on effective management strategies.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed, adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
- Searches included articles published between 2010-2020, focusing on major depressive disorder or unipolar depression, chronic pain, and elderly populations (≥65 years).
- Articles underwent a two-phase review (abstract and full-text) to identify relevant treatment modalities.
Main Results:
- Nine papers were included after full-text review, identifying a 13% co-occurrence of chronic pain and depression in the elderly.
- Common pain conditions included cancer-related pain, back pain, and arthritis.
- The review highlighted the need for tailored treatment approaches.
Conclusions:
- Individualized assessment is crucial for elderly patients with co-occurring chronic pain and depression.
- Thorough history, physical examination, and screening for both conditions are essential due to their independent association with suicide risk.
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