Understanding chronic pain in seniors

Chronic pain is a common condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is defined as pain that lasts for more than three months.

Chronic pain can be caused by several conditions, including arthritis, injury-related pain, and more. Its impact extends beyond physical discomfort, often affecting mental health, social life, and overall well-being.

There are a number of things to do to be able to manage your pain. Here are a few:

1. Talk to a healthcare professional. They can help discover the basic cause of your pain and provide a treatment plan that works for you.
2. Get enough rest. It is very crucial to balance activities and rest. Inadequate sleep makes the body less able to repair itself and this can lead to increased pain and
3. Try pain relief techniques. Explore non-pharmacological methods like heat/cold compress, massages etc to relieve pain.
4. Stay active. Regular exercise can help reduce pain, stiffness, and improve mobility.
5. Weight management. This can help reduce stress on the joints and relieve pain.
6. Engage in hobbies. Chronic pain can often cause depression or isolation. It is helpful to engage in activities that you enjoy. Also spend time with and seek support from friends and family, instead of staying isolated.
7. Stay informed and constantly educate yourself about your condition and available treatment options.

While it may not always be possible to completely get rid of chronic pain, managing and coping with the discomfort can be accomplished. It requires an all-round approach, and with proper support, resources, and care, you can improve the quality of life of seniors.