As people age, they may notice aches and pains, sore muscles and stiffness. They often start to feel it’s part of their everyday life. Chronic pain, which is defined as pain that lasts longer than three months, is typical in adults 65 and older. Understanding why this pain happens more often with age can help people take steps to manage it. This can improve how they feel and may stop the pain from becoming too much to handle.

Why do older adults feel pain more often?

Older adults often have knee, hip and lower back pain, which may be caused by bones and joints wearing down over time.

Women tend to experience more pain than men, especially as they age. This could be due to hormonal changes and, because women live longer, a higher chance of developing painful conditions such as arthritis.

Some older adults have neuropathic pain, a type of nerve pain that can be hard to treat. If left untreated, pain can lead to more health problems, which is why early management is so important.

The emotional toll

Chronic pain doesn’t just hurt physically — it also affects people emotionally. It can make it hard to do everyday things, like getting dressed or cooking meals. Chronic pain can also cause sleep problems, which leads to more tiredness and frustration. Isolation or sadness are also common when pain prevents people from doing things they enjoy. For this reason, it’s important to manage both the physical and emotional effects of pain​.

Can chronic pain be controlled?

Chronic pain can often be managed, though it might not completely disappear. Health care providers recommend various treatments to control pain. It’s important to find what works best for each person. For some patients, this means using more than one type of treatment. A multidisciplinary approach is best for finding the right options. Clinicians may recommend the following:

Medications – Many older adults use over the counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to ease pain. Even though these medicines help, using them long-term can cause problems such as stomach or liver issues and other side effects. The American Geriatrics Society recommends acetaminophen as the first choice, though it may not be as effective as other medications for helping chronic inflammation, especially prescription medications – which can also carry risks.

Physical activity and exercise – Exercise can be one of the best ways to manage pain. Even small movements, like stretching or walking, can help keep joints and muscles strong, reducing pain and making it easier to move around. Physical therapists can help by teaching specific exercises to target painful areas.

Alternative therapies – Some people find relief with treatments such as acupuncture or massage. These therapies can help reduce pain, especially muscle aches. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can also help by teaching coping skills for the emotional stress of pain.

The role of caregivers in managing chronic pain

Caregivers play a key role in helping older adults manage chronic pain. They help with daily tasks, ensure their loved ones stick to treatment plans and encourage open communication. Caregivers can also promote a healthy lifestyle by encouraging a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Preventing chronic pain

Preventing chronic pain is often easier than treating it. Regular exercise, a healthy diet and staying active can help reduce the risk of developing chronic pain later in life. Regular check-ups with a doctor can also catch any issues early before they become bigger problems. Don’t let chronic pain get out of hand. See a doctor and take the first steps toward better health and well-being.

At WellMed, we provide personalized primary care for people with Medicare. Our doctors listen with care and compassion and empower patients at every step. We help patients live pain-free so they can return to the activities they love.