by Dr. P. Carl Rafey
20. June 2011 12:00
Chronic pain plagues older adults more than any other age group. Wiener (2007) from the Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Department of Anesthesiology at the University of Pittsburgh, published an article stating, “While common, chronic pain is not a normal part of aging, and it should be treated with an emphasis on improved physical function and quality of life” (p. 306). Pain is an important component, but is not the only issue in chronic conditions.
Another interesting point made in the article had to do with the effectiveness of pain treatment. The author stated, Physical function, mood, endurance, sleep, appetite, and interpersonal interactions may respond even more substantially to treatment, as may overall quality of life” (Wiener, 2007, p. 315).
Subscribe