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Pain Management for Older Adults Across the Cognitive Trajectory
Ann L Horgas1, Jianli Wu1, Staja Q Booker1
1University of Florida, College of Nursing.
Current Geriatrics Reports
|December 6, 2024
Summary
Chronic pain in older adults is linked to cognitive decline and dementia. Emerging non-pharmacological treatments like medical cannabis and music therapy show promise for pain management.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neuroscience
- Pain Management
Background:
- Chronic pain is prevalent in older adults, with complex syndromes.
- Research indicates links between chronic pain and cognitive performance changes.
- Subjective cognitive decline may be a precursor to dementia.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the relationship between chronic pain and cognitive function.
- Review pain management strategies for older adults with cognitive decline.
- Examine the impact of dementia on pain expression.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of current research on chronic pain and cognition.
- Analysis of studies on pain management in older adults.
- Evaluation of non-pharmacological interventions.
Main Results:
- Chronic pain is associated with varying degrees of cognitive decline.
- Medical cannabis and music therapy are effective non-pharmacological pain treatments.
- Dementia can influence how pain is expressed.
Conclusions:
- Chronic pain impacts cognitive trajectory in older adults.
- Medical cannabis and music therapy are promising pain relief strategies.
- Further rigorous research is needed for these interventions.
Keywords:
cognitive impairmentdementianonpharmacologic treatmentolder adultpainsubjective cognitive declineMore Related Videos
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