Older adults living with chronic pain: an opportunity for improvement

Abstract

The American Geriatrics Society has recently published clinical practice guidelines addressing chronic pain in older adults. The guidelines identify current provider-based and system-oriented barriers and recommend practice improvements to enhance routine assessment, pharmacological therapy, and nonpharmacological therapy. Recommended organizational improvements focus on facilitating access and delivery of optimal care for all older adults living with chronic pain. Nurses are encouraged to assess older adults routinely for the presence of chronic pain and to advocate for appropriate treatment when indicated.