[Older care receivers with chronic pain : Cross-sectional study of gender-specific pain intensity and home-care provision in the city environment].

BACKGROUND

Pain prevalence rates of up to 53% are found among older home-care recipients (aged ≥ 60 years). Of people affected by pain in Germany, care recipients comprise a relevant group with prevalence rates of around 70%. The available information on gender-specific pain experience shows a range of differing findings.

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to determine pain parameters of older care receivers in the big city environment who are capable of self-reporting, taking into account gender differences and relevant aspects of medical care and medication.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A cross-sectional study (structured interviews) was carried out among older (≥65 years) home-care recipients (German Social Security Code SGB XI) in Berlin, with chronic pain (n = 225), capable of self-reporting (MMST ≥ 18). Pain parameters were determined using the German version of the brief pain inventory (BPI-NHR). Multiple regression analysis was applied to test and explain how the severest pain was influenced by sociodemographic and medical parameters, mental and physical restrictions, and analgesic provision.

RESULTS

Analyses showed an average pain intensity of 5.3 (SD ± 2.0). The severest pain averaged 7.0 (SD ± 2.2). Few indications of significant gender-based differences were found (e.g. pain location, number of medications). The final model identified the number of pain locations (≥14), everyday abilities, and pain medication (as needed, none) as being associated with the severest pain. Treatment achieved pain relief of over 70% in only 24.6% of cases among pain-affected care receivers.

CONCLUSION

The findings indicate a significant level of pain experienced by older home-care recipients. Interdisciplinary care concepts are urgently needed.