Perceptions of Pain Medication in the Elderly

: Individual interpretation of pain can vary among patients as well as in certain populations. Patients' and health care providers' assessment of pain and its treatment modalities can affect goals of therapy and overall success of treatment. Exploring these related perceptions will allow a more effective approach to the management of pain in the elderly population and improve the use of appropriate pain medications. This literature review will provide a better understanding of the associated emotional, physical, and perceptional aspects of pain within the elderly population and discuss barriers associated with the effective treatment of pain. This knowledge will serve as a resource for geriatric practitioners to select and provide appropriate therapeutic interventions for pain management in the elderly population.