RESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Neuropathic pain is a common problem in later life. It remains relatively refractory to treatment and in terms of social consequences may be particularly problematic for older people. OBJECTIVE: This study set out to explore the lived experiences of older people with neuropathic pain, in particular their social experiences and those of their partners/spouses. DESIGN: A qualitative approach was chosen, using semi-structured interviews. Sixteen people over the age of 60, who attended pain clinics, were interviewed in their homes. All interviews were audiotaped and the analysis was based on an Interpretative Phenomenological Approach. RESULTS: The study identified that a combination of pain-related limitations and uncertainties resulted in the social withdrawal of patients, and social isolation for both patients and their spouses. The findings illustrate the processes by which this occurs in this group of patients. CONCLUSIONS: The study raises important questions concerning the relationship between neuropathic pain, its physical and emotional consequences and social outcomes. The results highlight the importance of viewing neuropathic pain as a social phenomenon in which treatment and management should pay closer attention to the interpersonal and social needs and quality of life outcomes for the spouse or partner and family as well as the patient.
Asunto(s)
Anciano , Dolor/etiología , Dolor/psicología , Enfermedades del Sistema Nervioso Periférico/complicaciones , Cuidadores/psicología , Recolección de Datos , Interpretación Estadística de Datos , Femenino , Encuestas Epidemiológicas , Humanos , Relaciones Interpersonales , Entrevistas como Asunto , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Clínicas de Dolor , Calidad de Vida , Aislamiento Social , Resultado del TratamientoRESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Many older people suffer from degenerative and chronic diseases resulting in chronic pain. It is important for health professionals and researchers to gain insights into experiences of chronic pain sufferers, so that they may understand the patient's perspective and instigate appropriate treatments. AIM: This study set out to gain insights into older people's perceptions about the effect of chronic pain on their lives and how they self-manage it. DESIGN: A qualitative approach to generating data based on Grounded Theory was chosen. Sixty-three people between the ages of 60 and 87 years participated and were interviewed using audiotape. The interviews were transcribed and subsequently analyzed, and the material was coded and collapsed into themes constituting the final grounded theory. RESULTS: As the data collection progressed, a major theme of perseverance emerged, supported by two subthemes: * keeping occupied, and * a focus on social activities. It became apparent that the participants were determined to get on with their lives. Those with strong social links appeared to have a more positive outlook on life. CONCLUSIONS: "Keeping going" was a priority for most of the participants. It may be beneficial to identify the ways in which older people persevere despite chronic pain. It is important for health professionals to appreciate the social factors which are important to, and valued by, older people who experience chronic pain.