Older Adult Perspectives on Integrative Pain Management, Analgesics and Educational Preferences

Older adults' (adults over age 50) preferences for educational programs on integrative pain management have not been adequately explored. Integrative pain management uses a holistic approach combining traditional medical treatments with alternative non-pharmacological practices. Pain-related education targeting older adults is supported by prior research, but to our knowledge older adult perspectives and learning preferences have not been investigated. Our objective was to explore older adult views on integrative pain management, specifically their educational needs and preferences, for patient-centered pain management education. Patients >50 years of age with chronic pain (pain for three months or longer), were eligible for enrollment in virtual focus groups. Audio recordings were transcribed, coded, and analyzed via a mixed inductive-deductive framework approach using ATLAS.ti version 23.0.8.0 (Microsoft, Redmond, WA, USA). Descriptive statistics were performed using Stata 16 (StataCorp., College Station, TX, USA).  There were 16 participants and five themes generated: opioid/analgesic perceptions, integrative pain management, patient-provider relationship, and educational needs/preferences. All participants felt traditional interactions with healthcare providers did not adequately address their educational needs. There were discordant views on opioids, some noted positive impacts on pain and function and others feared addiction and side effects. Subthemes on the patient-provider relationship were identified including misalignment in treatment preferences/goals and communication gaps. Participants preferred virtual programs, incorporating demonstrations, audience interaction, and physical materials. These findings can be used to develop patient-centered educational programs.