A qualitative study of the behaviours, views, and experience of older people in the Scottish Highlands to the management of chronic pain.

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic pain is very common among the elderly, which limits their independence and makes them seek external sources of help. Furthermore, In the Scottish Highlands, their access to health service providers is more difficult than in cities. Because of that, this research understudy aspires to examine and explore the behaviour and experiences of older people in the Scottish Highlands in the management of chronic pain.

Methods: For this study, qualitative data were collected through telephone interviews. Participants aged 75 and over were targeted. Target size was predetermined to be 40 participants However, only 37 participants responded to the request. participants divided into groups of students each group had a share of approximately 12 participants. The interviews were audio-recorded and transcripted. inductive and deductive approaches were used to develop the analytical framework.

Result: Out of 12, a total of 10 participants took part in the study. Chronic pain management involves pharmacological and nonpharmacological approaches. The responses demonstrated that chronic pain management allows patients to manage health effectively. All participants are feeling fine about accessing chronic pain management. There are no barriers that can limit accessing chronic pain management except the waiting time and the distance.

Discussion: The pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches can be combined to achieve the best result. making the services more local can help the elderly in Scottish Highland to reduce their suffering. Expanding the age group can lead to better results.

Conclusion: Broader geographic areas must be covered in order to obtain more reliable results.

Key Words: Chronic pain, elderly people, Scottish Highlands, pharmacists’ role, pain managements, barriers.