Chronic pain in elderly patients

Abstract

The purpose. The article is devoted to chronic pain (CP) in elderly patients and the possibilities of various therapeutic strategies for this category of patients.Basic provisions. Chronic pain and the biological aging process have similar pathophysiological (cellular and molecular) mechanisms of development. However, chronic pain is not an inevitable component of the aging process, however, it is much more common in older people, the diagnosis and therapy of which is associated with atypical clinical manifestations of pain in elderly patients and the need for a more attentive, balanced approach when assessing pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic changes associated with the aging process. To ensure adequate pain relief, a multidisciplinary approach and appropriate therapies are used.Conclusion. The final result of CP treatment (reduction in pain intensity, restoration of functional activity, autonomy, etc.) depends on polymorbidity, geriatric status and cognitive capabilities of the patient; therefore, it is necessary to take into account all available factors for adequate and complete pain therapy.