Reframing Hospital Pain Assessment for Older Adults

Key Points

• This viewpoint aims to explore how integrating structured functional assessments can improve pain evaluations in older adults.
• Proposes the addition of structured functional assessment to current pain evaluation techniques.
• Analyzes the impact of numeric intensity scores combined with functional assessments on pain management.
• Focuses on creating a more actionable and patient-centered approach to pain assessment.
• Suggests that combining functional assessments with numeric scores leads to more effective pain management.
• Indicates potential for improved patient satisfaction and care outcomes for older adults.
• Emphasizes the need for a shift in traditional pain assessment practices to better serve older adults.