Review Video

Studies indicate that persistent pain is present in ¼ to ½ of community-dwelling older adults, and in 45 to 80 percent of residents in long term care. Untreated pain can diminish function, mood, appetite and overall quality of life. While not a normal part of aging, pain is associated with many chronic illnesses present among older adults. Incorporating assessment for pain-now considered to be the fifth vital sign- can be accomplished using a range of standardized tools.

Whether patients are cognitively intact and able to quantify their pain and communicate without difficulty, or in end-stage dementia with severely limited verbal ability, the presence and severity of pain can be determined using a variety of tools found in the Try This series. This video includes demonstrations of how to assess for pain in any older adult, and to reassess to determine the effectiveness of interventions, using four distinct tools: the Faces Pain Scale, the Verbal Descriptor Scale, the Numeric Rating Scale, and the Pain Assessment in Advanced Dementia Scale (PAINAD). In this program, interdisciplinary team members also develop a care plan to address chronic pain in a patient with severe arthritis and a history of joint replacement, and family members who have discouraged use of medication for fear addiction might result. This video organizes information in chaptered formats for viewers interested in specific aspects of the program.

Ellen Flaherty, PhD, GNP has no significant ties, financial or otherwise, to any company that might have an interest in the publication of this educational activity.