La valutazione del dolore negli anziani con declino cognitivo

In the coming decades, the number of elderly individuals facing health problems and chronic-degenerative conditions, often accompanied by increased pain symptoms, is expected to rise significantly. Pain in the elderly often stems from multiple sources, including osteoarticular and vascular disorders, as well as psychological and social influences. Despite research efforts into age-related pain perception, it remains unclear how aging influences the neurological components and pain response within the central nervous system. The prevalence of chronic pain among the elderly is high, adversely affecting quality of life, socialization, and healthcare resource utilization. Undertreatment of pain is common, particularly among those with cognitive decline and those over 85 years old, with only a minority receiving adequate therapy. This issue is exacerbated by challenges in pain assessment among patients with dementia, where treatment is often limited by recognition gaps and communication difficulties. Pain assessment tools, crucial for effective management, must be tailored to the cognitive abilities of elderly patients, encompassing both self-reported and observational assessments. However, challenges remain in validating and practically applying these tools, especially in care settings for elderly individuals with severe cognitive impairments. In conclusion, improving pain management in the elderly requires a multidimensional approach that acknowledges the diverse manifestations and challenges in assessing and treating chronic pain, particularly in the most vulnerable populations