"NI"
Numerous studies document the prevalence of pain among different populations and in different practice settings. However, very little is known about the pain experience of the non-institutionalized elderly US population. Using data from the Asset and Health Dynamics Among the Oldest Old (AHEAD), this study reports the prevalence and impact of pain on perceived health status among the general population, aged 70 or older. Initiated in 1993, the AHEAD is a longitudinal population-based survey designed to examine the dynamic interactions between health, family, and economic variables, in the post-retirement period. This report is based on the 1993 public release data on 8,215 respondents. Logistic regression analysis was utilized to look at predictors of perceived health status. Results showed that 33% of the elderly often have pain, whereas 20% have significant pain resulting to activity limitation. Further, those who often have pain are more than twice likely (OR=2.3; 95%CI=2.02, 2.70; p=<.000) to perceive their health status to be "poor". Other predictors of "poor" health status (p<.00) include age; race; chronic conditions (i.e., hypertension, cancer, lung diseases, angina, depression) and having been hospitalized in the previous year. This study provides empirical evidence on the widespread prevalence of pain and its significant impact on perceived health status in a previously understudied population. In the absence of improved pain assessment, treatment and control efforts, the widespread prevalence of pain is expected to lead to increases in morbidity and mortality, if not a poorer quality of life, among the vulnerable elderly population.
Learning Objectives: 1. Identify the prevalence of pain in the elderly US population. 2. State to what extent pain is associated with perceived health status in the elderly population. 3. Identify the significant predictors of "poor" health status in the elderly population. 4. State at least three negative consequences of pain on the health status of the elderly population. 5. Identify at least three measures/interventions to improve pain assessment, treatment, and control in the elderly population
Keywords: Elderly, Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: none
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.