Abstract
The quality of life for elderly nursing home residents is profoundly impacted by pain and stress. Traditional treatment models have been medically oriented, often relying entirely on pharmacological approaches. The nursing home resident as an active participant in the healing process is often overlooked, and yet recent research has indicated that elderly patients with chronic pain can benefit from the use of alternative, non-pharmacological approaches.
A psychoeducational group therapy program for chronic pain, anxiety and distress, modeled on the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program at the UMass Medical Center, was introduced into a 514-bed academic nursing home. Group members practiced breathing exercises, meditation, visualization, and guided imagery. Music and aromatherapy were also utilized to provide a calming milieu. In addition, group tasks focused on reframing responses to difficult situations and empowering the residents. Members are taught to practice techniques in response to pain and stressful episodes.
Pre — and posttests, using the Coop scales measuring emotional well-being and level of pain, showed that following the Relaxation Group, nursing home residents felt less sad (P < 0.001) and showed a trend towards feeling less pain (P = 0.094). The group developed a devoted following who were also able to articulate their positive feelings about the Relaxation Group experience.
