Skip to main content

Research Repository

Advanced Search

What do we mean by 'older adults' persistent pain self-management'? A concept analysis.

Stewart, Carrie; Schofield, Pat; Elliott, Alison M.; Torrance, Nicola; Leveille, Suzanne

Authors

Carrie Stewart

Pat Schofield

Alison M. Elliott

Suzanne Leveille



Abstract

Background: No standard definition exists for the concept “persistent pain self-management” or how it should be defined in relation to older adults. Poorly defined concepts can result in misunderstandings in the clinical setting and can hinder research through difficulties identifying or measuring the concept. Objective: To ascertain attributes, referents, antecedents, and consequences of the concept older adults' persistent pain self-management and develop a theoretical definition. Design: Rodgers evolutionary model of concept analysis was used to systematically analyze articles from the academic and grey literature (N = 45). Data were extracted using standardized extraction forms and analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings: This concept was discussed in three ways: as an intervention, in reference to everyday behaviors, and as an outcome. Five defining attributes were identified: multidimensional process, personal development, active individuals, symptom response, and symptom control. Patients' perceived need and ability to manage pain with support from others is necessary for pain self-management to occur. Numerous physical, psychological, and social health consequences were identified. A theoretical definition is discussed. Conclusions: 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.

Citation

STEWART, C., SCHOFIELD, P., ELLIOTT, A.M., TORRANCE, N. and LEVEILLE, S. 2014. What do we mean by 'older adults' persistent pain self-management'? A concept analysis. Pain medicine [online], 15(2), pages 214-224. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1111/pme.12251

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Feb 13, 2014
Online Publication Date Feb 13, 2014
Publication Date Feb 28, 2014
Deposit Date Mar 31, 2020
Publicly Available Date Mar 29, 2024
Journal Pain medicine
Print ISSN 1526-2375
Electronic ISSN 1526-4637
Publisher Oxford University Press
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 15
Issue 2
Pages 214-224
DOI https://doi.org/10.1111/pme.12251
Keywords Aged; Pain; Chronic pain; Pain management; Self-management; Concepts; Concept development
Public URL https://rgu-repository.worktribe.com/output/819994
Publisher URL https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24119048