Exercise-Based Pain Interventions for People with Dementia Using a Biopsychosocial-Environmental (BPSE) Model

To introduce the Biopsychosocial-Environmental (BPSE) model to guide an exercise intervention to address pain related to osteoarthritis (OA) among people living with dementia (PLWD). This review [1] synthesizes literature on the biological, psychological, social, and environmental aspects of pain from OA in the knee, neurodegeneration in PLWD, and exercise implications for these comorbidities, and [2] demonstrates the clinical utility of the BPSE model in designing tailored exercise interventions to manage knee OA pain in PLWD.

Research indicates that pain from knee OA and neurodegeneration from dementia interact across multiple factors, including psychological, social, and environmental. These factors compound the biological interactions of the comorbidities, further challenging function and quality of life.

The BPSE model provides a structured framework for tailoring exercise interventions to PLWDs' interests and preserved abilities. Applying this model may improve pain management, mobility, and quality of life while informing future chronic disease management in PLWD.