Narcotics can be used safely in the elder population with frequent assessment and appropriate evaluation of the response to the medication. The lack of expression of pain must not be interpreted as a lack of pain. Again, such assumption leads to needless suffering and inappropriate care. While chronic pain can cause depression, rarely does depression cause pain. Depression can affect an elder's ability to cope with pain.
Pain needs to be addressed in older persons because of the impact pain has on movement and mobility.
The pain from some chronic medical conditions such as arthritis can limit the number of activities and level of activities a person will perform. The level of limitation depends on the severity of pain and the person's behavioral characteristics. Individuals react to pain differently. Some succumb to pain and avoid activities. Others attempt to distract themselves from the pain through involvement in activities.