Principles of Pain Assessment and Treatment in Non-Communicative Demented Patients

Abstract

Abstract The assessment of and treatment of pain in non-communicative demented patients poses a significant challenge to health care providers. This review discusses the importance of regular pain assessment and treatment for non-communicative demented individuals. We discuss the scope of the problem of under-recognition and under-treatment of pain in geriatric settings, and the unique characteristics of the pain experience in severely demented individuals. Next, we review pain assessment techniques and discuss important barriers to treatment. Finally, we provide recommendations for pain assessment and treatment.