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Articles related to focusing on healthy aging, prevention, mobility, cognition, nutrition, independence, and caregiving support.

4 min

What should a nurse consider when assessing the pain status of an older adult?

According to the American Geriatrics Society, between 45% and 85% of older persons in nursing homes experience pain, which is often undertreated. When assessing the pain status of an older adult, a nurse should consider communication barriers, cognitive status, comorbidities, and the crucial role of family input. A comprehensive approach moves beyond simple numeric scales to observe behavioral changes, assess functional impact, and incorporate collateral information for an accurate evaluation.

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4 min

Behavioral Observation is Paramount When Assessing Pain in an Older Adult with Advanced Dementia

An estimated 80% of individuals in care homes with dementia suffer from chronic pain, yet their limited ability to communicate makes accurate assessment challenging. When assessing pain in an older adult with advanced dementia, which factor is particularly important for the nurse to consider? The most crucial factor is the systematic observation of the patient's behaviors, as self-reporting is often unreliable or impossible.

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