Chronic pain and depression

Keela Herr, University of Iowa
Paula Mobily, University of Iowa

Abstract

Because of the increased incidence of chronic disease and other health problems associated with aging, chronic pain is a common companion for the elderly. Pain is of great clinical importance, often associated with disability, loss of independence, and reduced quality of life. A fact that is of interest to psychiatric nurses is that many elderly with complaints of chronic pain also exhibit signs and symptoms of depressive disorders. Treating chronic pain conditions is complex and difficult, and health-care professionals are increasingly recognizing that psychological factors are often involved in the development and continuation of chronic pain problems. Depression is one of these influential variables. Increased understanding of the role of depression in the etiology and maintenance of chronic pain can improve assessment and intervention for the elderly with chronic pain complaints.