Alzheimer's Society comments on new Help The Aged report.
Published 14 November 2008
Three fifths of adults would like to see hospitals and healthcare providers penalised for failing to help older people in pain according to a report released today (Friday 14 November).
The report (Pain in Older People: Reflections and Experiences from an Older Person's Perspective) also highlighted a lack of confidence in health professionals that can alleviate pain and a dismissal of pain in older people.
Alzheimer's Society comment:
Chief Executive
Alzheimer's Society
Alzheimer's Society comment:
'It is unacceptable that more than half the people polled by Help The Aged felt that health professionals dismiss pain in older people as 'old age'. Pain, like dementia, is not a natural part of ageing. The poll demonstrates a need for clear guidelines and regulations to ensure people in pain are cared for appropriately regardless of other factors including age.Neil Hunt
Pain management for people with dementia is particularly problematic as it is not always possible for a person with dementia to communicate when they are in pain. Specialist training is vital for all people caring for those in pain to minimise suffering and improve quality of life.'
Chief Executive
Alzheimer's Society
