What Do We Mean by “Older Adults' Persistent Pain Self-management”? A Concept Analysis

Abstract

Our findings have clarified existing use and understanding regarding the concept of older adults' persistent pain self-management. We have identified three areas for future development: refinement of the attributes of this concept within the context of older adults, an exploration of how providers can overcome difficulties supporting older adults' persistent pain self-management, and a clarification of the overall theoretical framework of older adults' persistent pain self-management.

A Systematic Review and Integration of Concept Analyses of Self‐Care and Related Concepts

“…Symptom management requires self‐awareness of the need, disposition, and ability to manage symptoms, and support from healthcare providers and family (Stewart et al., ).…”

“…Two concept analyses described symptom management in cancer (Fu, Le Mone, & McDaniel, 2004) and pain management in older people (Stewart, Schofield, Elliott, Torrance, & Leveille, 2014). Symptom management is defined as a dynamic and multidimensional process by which an individual intentionally performs activities by himself or herself, or others perform such activities, to relieve or decrease the distress derived from the perception of a symptom (Fu et al, 2004).…”

Postoperative Pain Self‐Management Behavior in Patients Who Underwent Total Knee or Hip Arthroplasty

“…Biological fitness may be more important than chronological age in influencing pain self‐management ability 43 . Evidence suggests that older adults express a willingness to be engaged in pain self‐management activities 44 and gain benefits in their physical health, psychological health, social function, and quality of life 45 . Health care professionals should not assume that older patients are less capable than younger patients to learn pain self‐management or have less motivation to do so.…”

Pain Self-Management-One Meaning for All?

“…In this issue of Pain Medicine, Stewart and colleagues [1] explore the conceptual terrain of pain self‐management in older adults. The concept analysis method used by the authors to identify commonalities in the relevant literature on persistent musculoskeletal pain self‐management led them to propose a definition that is not “age‐specific” but rests on five key attributes: multi‐dimensional process, personal development, active individuals, symptom response, and symptom control.…”