Chronic Pain and Aging: Why Current Practices May Not Be the Answer

As the extensive population of baby boomers continue to get older, and as our life expectancy continues being extended, our thinking pertaining to controlling chronic pain has changed accordingly. Presently, over fifty percent of those over age 65 complain of persistent pain – and for 75 percent of those fighting chronic pain, the pain exhibits in a number of locations – and is negatively impacting their physical function and quality of life.

Physicians frequently rely on prescribed opiates for long-term pain, that could result in contraindications with other medications and substances including alcohol, in addition to serious addiction concerns. Further compounding the problem, opiates are not shown to be successful long-term for chronic pain – and may actually intensify such conditions.

It’s important to think about the full spectrum of older adult needs when wanting to manage chronic pain: physical, psychological, and social.

Physical: Communication between all healthcare providers is critical, to make certain that all medications prescribed are safe when taken with each other, and that treatment is modified to manage the precise needs of seniors, considering slowed metabolism, increased likelihood to use or abuse alcohol, physical inactivity, and more. Many older adults also find that it’s helpful to participate in activities that transfer the focus away from physical pain, including yoga, meditation and mindfulness.

Psychological: The frequency of depression, dementia and anxiety is increased in older adults. Exploring non-medicated care options such as exercise, cognitive, behavioral, problem-solving, and interpersonal therapy can be useful.

Social: Isolation is a factor for some older adults, as a result of loss of loved ones, inability to drive, illness, frailty, retirement, and more. Handling the requirement for increased socialization is an essential aspect of an older adult’s overall wellbeing and health.

Fortunately, an experienced in-home caregiver, such as those at Independence-4-Seniors Home Care, can help seniors physically, emotionally, and socially through a full range of customized care options, including:

  • Medication reminders
  • Picking up prescriptions
  • Planning and preparing balanced meals
  • Providing transportation and accompaniment to doctor appointments as well as fun outings, exercise classes, and much more
  • Serving as a helpful companion to engage in favorite pastimes and minimize loneliness and isolation
  • And more, according to each individual’s unique needs

Call Hinsdale IL in-home care services provider, Independence-4-Seniors Home Care, any time at (630) 323-4665 to request resources pertaining to your senior loved one’s specific challenges, to learn more about our in-home care solutions, or to schedule a free in-home assessment.