The Assessment of Pain in Older People

Pain assessment is a crucial step toward adequate management of pain in older adults. This chapter addresses the assessment of pain as part of a multidimensional stepwise approach. Although pain assessment uses standardized screening, assessment, and monitoring tools, it needs to be tailored to the individual patient. In the case of pain assessment in older adults, one size does not fit all is a fundamental principle. Pain is a personal and subjective experience because of numerous factors. A broad, inclusive approach to assessment is required. In this chapter several case studies highlight the differences and factors that need to be taken into account in the assessment of pain in older people.