Old age, pain, and loss

Pain problems in old age are prevalent and often are complicated by life events. In this article, a 77-year-old woman whose chronic pain management and coping are significantly affected by multiple psychosocial stressors and various types of losses is discussed, with review of relevant literature. This case serves to illustrate issues of loss and grieving, caregiver burden, and family dynamics in relation to chronic pain management for older adults. Grief therapy and its role in pain management for older patients are discussed.