If it’s not enough that so many American seniors suffer with chronic pain that impacts their daily lives, these are issues that can cause even greater problems. According to a recent study, seniors with chronic pain are 50% more likely to have an accident as a result of a fall, increasing their physical problems even further. Chronic pain is often under treated in older adults, so seniors and their caregivers need to take matters into their own hands to ensure that their issues are addressed. Additionally, they can learn how to cope on their own so their life isn’t as greatly impacted by the chronic pain:

1. Keep a pain journal – using a calendar or day planner to rate the level of pain felt each day creates a document of the consistency and frequency of the pain and can help identify other factors that might contribute to it. Seniors can rate their pain on a scale from 1 to 10 in their journal

2. Be persistent – doctors don’t always take a senior’s complaint of pain seriously. Some may feel that the older adult is simply complaining, others may not think it’s as serious because some seniors downplay their experiences. Seniors suffering from chronic pain need to be honest, and persistent to make their doctor understand

3. Understand triggers – if specific activities make the pain worse or physical temperatures outdoors, seniors should record this and adjust their activities to reduce the instances

4. Get on with life – chronic pain can cause seniors to withdraw and avoid all activity. They should continue with activities that they enjoy and maintain a physical routine

Via: Chronic Pain Support

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