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Chronic pain is among the most common conditions suffered by older adults. It is a pain that continues long beyond an expected period. To make matters worse, chronic pain becomes increasingly common as people age.
It’s one of the concerns and questions for many people as they age – Will I have to live with chronic pain when I get older, and every day until I die? Will I be able to do anything about it so that I can live a pain-free existence? Do I have to take medications when I don’t want to? All these questions can cause seniors to worry about their future mobility and ability to enjoy life.
Several conditions can likely put a senior at risk of developing chronic pain. For those seniors already facing this issue, it may be due to the following conditions:
- Cardiovascular Diseases
- Neurologic Diseases
- Type II Diabetes
- Arthritis
- Cancer
- Renal Diseases
- Congestive Heart Failure
- Pulmonary Obstructions
- Joint or Skeletal Injuries or Surgeries
- Fractures
The truth is that many seniors are enduring chronic pain in silence. Here are the possible reasons why some seniors tend to ignore and under-report their chronic pain symptoms:
- The assumption is that it is a natural part of aging.
- The fear of submitting themselves to several medical examinations.
- The fear of prescribed medications.
- Seniors whose chronic pain is associated with a particular disease are scared to know about the prognosis of other illnesses or the escalation of it.
Addressing Chronic Pain In The Elderly
Chronic pain must not be dealt with passively. A responsible family member may have to step in and help with their pain management. They can help organize multiple treatment and pain management plans.
Addressing the type of chronic pain and discomfort suffered may not be possible immediately. It may take multiple healthcare providers to assess the condition and provide correct guidance. Here are some guidelines on how to help manage chronic pain in seniors:
Assess the pain level: Let’s start by assessing the pain and discomfort the older adult is experiencing. This doesn’t happen without challenges, and accurately evaluating the pain level may not always be possible.
This is because some older adults will either downplay their situation due to various fears, or they may be someone who cannot accurately give you an answer because of cognitive decline or other similar conditions.
If they can answer you effectively, the simplest method is asking them to describe their pain using a descriptive scale, for example, ‘describe your pain on a range of one to 10, with ten being the maximum.’
Observe The Suffering Senior For Their Reactions
Please don’t stop asking the person for their evaluation, but always observe them for non-verbal cues and other reactions. They might feel worse than they can describe or will let on.
Managing pain through medicines: Medicine is often very effective, but the physician should always do this. Some people may not believe in prescription medication, and that’s ok. A naturopath or holistic health care professional can help them. The pain management plan they should use is whatever treatment they feel comfortable with.
Nonpharmacologic pain management: As mentioned above, there are numerous nonpharmacologic strategies for managing chronic pain in seniors. Some seniors may prefer alternative treatment methods, such as physical therapy, massage therapy, Bowen therapy, hot and cold therapy, acupuncture, chiropractic, and more.
Suffering from chronic pain is a significant concern for seniors, and a good reason. No one wants to live a life of pain every day. Therefore, finding the appropriate pain management treatment plan that suits their needs and beliefs is essential if they live a pain-free existence.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve tried medications, but they have side effects. Are there non-drug options for chronic pain management in seniors?
Absolutely! Non-drug approaches are increasingly recognized as essential components of chronic pain management, especially for seniors. Research shows that combining medications with therapies like physical therapy, tai chi, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be more effective than medication alone. The American Geriatrics Society emphasizes the importance of personalized pain management plans that often include a mix of these approaches.
What’s the latest research on physical therapy for chronic pain in seniors?
Physical therapy is a cornerstone of non-drug chronic pain management. A recent study published in the Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy found that targeted exercise programs can substantially reduce pain intensity and improve physical function in seniors. Therapists can tailor exercises to address specific pain conditions like osteoarthritis or back pain.
I’ve heard about mindfulness and meditation for pain. Do they work for seniors?
Mindfulness and meditation techniques have gained traction in pain management. Studies, like one distributed in JAMA Internal Medicine, show that mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) can decrease pain intensity and improve emotional well-being in seniors. It’s a way to retrain your brain’s response to pain signals.
Are there any new technological advances in chronic pain management for seniors?
The field is evolving rapidly. We’re seeing wearable devices that deliver transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for pain relief, virtual reality (VR) programs that distract from pain, and even smartphone apps that guide mindfulness exercises. Research is ongoing to assess their long-term effectiveness in seniors.
My chronic pain seems to worsen my mood. Is there a connection?
There’s a strong link between chronic pain and mental health, particularly depression and anxiety. A meta-analysis in Pain Journal found that treating depression in chronic pain patients can lead to significant pain reduction. Don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor about the emotional impact of your pain.
I’m concerned about the long-term use of pain medications. Are there any risks specific to seniors?
Yes, seniors are more susceptible to medication side effects due to age-related changes in how our bodies process drugs. Opioid medications, in particular, require careful monitoring due to risks of addiction, falls, and cognitive impairment. Always discuss your concerns with your doctor.
Are there any alternative therapies like acupuncture or massage that can help with chronic pain in seniors?
These therapies can be valuable additions to a pain management plan. A logical review in the Journal of Pain found evidence supporting acupuncture’s effectiveness for certain chronic pain conditions. At the same time, massage therapy can reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation.
What role does nutrition play in chronic pain management for seniors?
A healthy diet with anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, omega-3 fatty acids, and vegetables can help manage pain. Research published in Nutrients suggests that dietary interventions may reduce inflammation and improve pain outcomes in some chronic conditions.
My doctor mentioned something called interventional pain management. What is that?
Interventional pain management involves procedures like nerve blocks, epidural injections, or spinal cord stimulation. These can offer targeted pain relief when other options have failed. They’re unsuitable for everyone, so discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
Where can I find reliable information and support for chronic pain management as a senior?
Numerous resources are available. The American Chronic Pain Association (ACPA), the National Institute on Aging (NIA), and your local senior centers often offer educational materials, support groups, and specialist referrals. Don’t hesitate to seek help; you’re not alone.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
References
- Pain: You Can Get Help: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/pain
- Nonpharmacologic Therapy for Chronic Pain in Older Adults: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30188538
- Acupuncture for Chronic Pain in Older People: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25166983
- The Association of Diet and Physical Activity with Pain Severity in Older Adults with Knee Osteoarthritis: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5594425