[Pain assessment in patients with dementia]

Abstract

Recent literature demonstrates that pain in patients with dementia is often undertreated. This can partially be explained by a lack of training in the possibilities of assessing pain in patients with dementia. Subjective reports are the most valid approach for the assessment of the subjective experience of pain and should therefore be preferred over other methods. The assessment of the context, behavior, and physiological markers is advised if the patient is unable to provide a subjective report. Pain assessment scales are useful for documentation and monitoring.