Medically Reviewed by Carmen Bass, BSN, RN

Pain in seniors is very common, with several studies indicating that over half of this demographic experience it on a regular basis. Due to its prevalence, it is important to keep a close watch over painful sensations at the onset so you—or the senior in your life—can begin to treat it before greater discomfort and/or more serious issues arise.

 

Before we look at the best ways to assess and begin to treat pain in seniors, let’s first take a closer look at the unique challenges this demographic faces.

According to findings from the 2011 National Health and Aging Trends Study, 52.9 percent of the seniors (ages 65 and up) surveyed reported that they suffered from pain the previous month. Additionally, nearly 75 percent reported multiple sites of pain, with prevalence higher in:

 

• Women
• Obese participants
• Participants suffering from depression
• Participants with musculoskeletal conditions

 

The study concluded that pain was strongly associated with limitations in physical function, both of which negatively impact one’s quality of life.

 

Further, other research indicates that persistent pain in seniors is prevalent at even higher rates of 60 to 75 percent, with even greater rates in seniors who reside in nursing homes.

 

Moreover, pain in seniors tends to be more moderate to severe in intensity and more chronic (versus short-term) in nature.

According to a 2014 review of studies published by the American Psychological Association, the most common complaints of pain in seniors include:

 

• Osteoarthritic pain in the lower back and/or neck
• Musculoskeletal pain
• Peripheral neuropathic pain (particularly in diabetics)
• Joint pain

 

Additionally, seniors who suffer from pain on account of hip fractures, pre-existing health conditions (including but not limited to arthritis, diabetes, and cancer), and/or following surgery may grapple with additional burdens such as slower recovery. Seniors with dementia may experience more confusion when experiencing pain.  

 

(Note: This isn’t an exhaustive list of pain sources, but rather some of the most commonly reported instances.)

As we saw in a few instances above, when pain isn’t properly managed, it can create a domino effect that hinders quality of life in several ways.

 

For instance, potential risks of inadequate pain management can manifest in the form of:

 

• Mental health disturbances, such as depression and anxiety
• Poor sleep quality
• Lack of appetite
• Unintended weight loss
• A poorer sense of overall well-being

It is worth noting that while pain may be more prevalent and intense in seniors than in younger populations, pain is neither a natural nor inevitable part of aging. This fact is essential to impart to seniors and younger adults alike, ideally for the sake of stopping pain before it begins (through preventative measures and healthy lifestyle practices) but also to empower seniors to openly communicate when pain arises.

 

However, some seniors may not be able or willing to indicate that something is wrong, which is why it’s essential to observe warning signs and check in regularly.

 

If you take care of a senior or have a loved one of advanced age, take heed of the following signs to see if pain may be present but unaddressed:

 

• Wincing or grimacing
• Writhing or restlessness
• Audible cues such as groaning or shortness of breath
• Increased tension or irritability

 

From there, you can take the following steps to better assess the cause and severity of pain:

 

• Inquire about any changes in their physical health
• Ask for the location of pain and severity on a scale of 1 to 10

 

If you suspect or know that pain is present, consult a medical professional straight away. He/she will be able to accurately assess and begin to treat pain through medication, physical rehabilitation, lifestyle modifications, and other treatments.

 

Here are some related resources on managing pain:

• 5 Easy Exercises for Arthritis
• 5 Natural Ways to Relieve Arthritis Pain