Rheumatic Diseases in the Elderly: Dealing with Rheumatic Pain in Extended Care Facilities

Rheumatic diseases representing over 100 conditions are common in elderly people, are increasing in frequency, and are undertreated. Extended care facilities have special needs and restrictions, making pain management more complicated. Understanding how to assess pain in a population at risk for poor pain control is vital. Treatment individualized to the patient's special circumstances where optimal care rarely means cure or complete relief of symptoms leads to improved function and quality of life.