• Susan Ruzicka, Sandra Sanchez-Reilly, and Meghan Gerety.
• School of Nursing, University of Texas Health Science Center, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900, USA. ruzicka@ swbell.net
• Am J Hosp Palliat Care. 2007 Aug 1; 24 (4): 291-9.

AbstractThis pilot study assessed pain using 7 dimensions of pain (physiologic, behavioral, sensory, affective, cognitive, sociocultural, and spiritual) to better understand and identify patterns of elder response to chronic pain within a holistic framework. Previously validated instruments were used to assess 150 cognitively intact subjects, aged 65 years and older, with chronic pain. Thirteen patterns were identified reflecting distinct patterns of pain response. Two patterns comprised 85% of the responses: (1) high spiritual well-being, low physiologic pain, and high perceived independent functioning; and (2) high spiritual well-being, low physiologic pain, and lower perceived independent functioning. The 11 other patterns of pain response also varied in their responses to the pain experience. These responses reflect the unique and holistic experience of chronic pain among older adults. Holistic assessment enhances the understanding of the pain specific to the individual. Self-perceived functional dependence and the spiritual component significantly influence chronic pain experiences.

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