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Pain and Depression in Aging Individuals

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Pain and Depression in Aging Individuals

Lucia Gagliese, PhD, CIHR New Investigator, School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University; Department of Anesthesia, Behavioural Sciences & Health Research Division, University Health Network; Departments of Anesthesia and Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON.

Depression is highly prevalent among older adults with chronic pain living both in community and institutional settings. It is associated with decreased quality of life, including impairments in physical and social well-being. This article reviews the relationship between pain and depression. The potential mediating role of disability, life interference, and perceived control are described. Routine assessment of both pain and mood, using scales validated for this age group, is advocated. Finally, the importance of integrating pharmacological and psychological interventions for the management of pain and depression in the older adult is highlighted.
Key words: chronic pain, depression, mood disturbance, assessment, management.

Related Terms: Pain, assessment, chronic pain, depression, management, mood disturbance