As the myriad of baby boomers continue to age, and as our life expectancy continues to be extended, our thinking about chronic pain management needs to expand accordingly. Currently, more than half of those over age 65 complain of persistent, ongoing pain – and for ¾ of those battling chronic pain, the pain displays in multiple locations – and is negatively impacting their physical function and quality of life.
All too often, chronic pain management involves physicians relying on prescribed opiates, which can lead to contraindications with other medications and substances such as alcohol, as well as serious addiction concerns. And to top it all off, opiates are not shown to be effective long-term for chronic pain – and in fact may actually worsen such conditions.
It’s important to consider the full spectrum of senior needs when attempting chronic pain management: physical, psychological, and social.
Physical: Communication between all medical providers is key to ensure all medications prescribed are safe when taken together, and that treatment is tailored to address the specific needs of aging adults, taking into account slowed metabolism, greater likelihood to use or abuse alcohol, physical inactivity, and more. Many seniors also find it beneficial to engage in activities that shift the focus away from physical pain, such as yoga, meditation and mindfulness.
Psychological: The prevalence of depression, dementia and anxiety is increased in older adults. Exploring non-medicated care options such as exercise, cognitive, behavioral, problem-solving, and interpersonal therapy may be beneficial.
Social: Isolation is a factor for many older adults, due to loss of loved ones, inability to drive, illness, frailty, retirement, and more. Addressing the need for enhanced socialization is a crucial component of an older adult’s overall wellbeing and health.
The good news is, a professional in-home caregiver, such as those at Heaven at Home Senior Care in the Grayson, TX area, can help seniors physically, emotionally, and socially, through a full range of customized care solutions to include:
- Medication reminders
- Picking up prescriptions
- Planning and preparing nutritious meals
- Providing transportation and accompaniment to medical appointments as well as fun outings, exercise classes, and more
- Serving as a friendly companion to engage in favorite pastimes and alleviate loneliness and isolation
- And much more, according to each individual’s unique needs
Call Heaven at Home Senior Care, a top-rated Grayson home health care agency, any time at 866-381-0500 or contact us online to request resources related to your senior loved one’s specific challenges, to learn more about our in-home care solutions, or to schedule a free in-home consultation.