Why older adults should talk about pain

Chronic pain affects over 50 million Americans, significantly impacting their daily lives, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). But misconceptions about pain often lead to untreated or improperly treated conditions. For older adults, open communication about pain is essential for effective management and improved well-being. Here’s why discussing pain is so important, especially for older adults.

Understanding the role of pain in older adults

Pain serves a critical function by alerting us to potential harm. For older adults, recognizing that pain is not merely a nuisance, but a protective signal can change the perception that all pain is inherently negative. For example, pain in a joint during physical activity might prevent further injury, guiding us to seek the appropriate care.

How to differentiate acute and chronic pain in seniors

Acute pain is typically sharp and sudden, with a clear cause, such as an injury or surgery, and it often resolves once the underlying issue is treated. Chronic pain, however, persists long after the initial cause has healed, sometimes lasting for years. Chronic pain can lead to additional physical and emotional distress, significantly affecting an older adult’s quality of life. Understanding the differences between acute and chronic pain can lead to more effective treatment for seniors.

Learn more about the difference between acute and chronic pain and how it affects older adults.

Dispelling myths about pain in older adults

As pain becomes more common, so do misconceptions about it. While pain is more common in older adults, it is not an inevitable part of aging. Conditions like arthritis or other chronic diseases may increase pain prevalence, but many treatments can help manage and reduce pain in older populations, improving their quality of life.

Explore some of the most common misconceptions about pain in older adults and the facts that debunk them.  

How to describe your pain effectively

Describing pain can be hard, but it’s important for effective pain management. Clear communication helps your doctor understand what you’re feeling and identify the best treatment options.

When discussing pain with your health care provider, consider the following questions:

• Where does it hurt?
• When did the pain start?
• Is the pain sharp, dull or burning?
• How bad is the pain on a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 is no pain and 10 is the worst pain ever?
• How long does the pain last?
• What makes the pain worse?
• What makes the pain better?

Keeping a pain diary can also help track pain patterns and triggers, providing valuable information for your physician.

Exploring alternative pain treatments

Pain management has evolved beyond medication alone. Techniques such as acupuncture, massage therapy and relaxation exercises can be highly effective, especially when combined with traditional treatments. Discussing these alternatives with health care professionals can lead to a more comprehensive pain management plan tailored to the unique needs of older adults.

Talking to your physician about pain management

Effective pain management can reduce the need for surgery and enhance overall well-being. If you’re experiencing chronic pain, reach out to your health care provider to discuss the best management strategies tailored to your needs. Don’t be afraid to speak up about your pain-doing so can lead to better treatment outcomes and a higher quality of life.

At Enhabit Home Health & Hospice, our team of dedicated clinicians is committed to helping patients manage their pain and enhance their quality of life. During each visit, Enhabit clinicians conduct a pain assessment. Additionally, skilled clinicians assist patients in managing their pain medications.