Research on persistent pain in late life: current topics and challenges.
Older women often experience pain in their daily lives. This article provides an overview of topics addressed in the geriatric pain research published between 1999 and 2004. New areas of emphasis of research have emerged such as the recognition of body mass and weight as a factor in persistent pain, while other areas have expanded, including the focus on pain among elders with cognitive impairments and the use of alternative treatment approaches. Understanding of pain in late life is hindered by study samples that lack diversity, treatment approaches that are narrowly focused, and a lack of attention to quality of life issues.
Roberto
Karen A
KA
Center for Gerontology, Virginial Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA. kroberto@vt.edu
Perkins
Susan N
SN
Holland
A Kate
AK
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D015577:Geriatric Assessment / Q000379:methods*; D006299:Health Services for the Aged / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D010146:Pain / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology; D011788:Quality of Life; D012107:Research Design; D016387:Women's Health