Developing a Nonpharmacological Pain Intervention for Community-dwelling Older Adults With Dementia

Chronic musculoskeletal pain, specifically osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee, is common among community-dwelling people living with memory issues and associated with cascading negative consequences on physical function limitations, quality of life decline, and caregiver burden; however, few beneficial and appropriate treatment options exist. This study seeks to use evidence, theory, and stakeholder input to design an exercise-based intervention for knee OA pain management tailored to the interests, preserved abilities, and biopsychosocial-environmental needs of community-dwelling older adults with mild to very mild dementia. Findings from K23 research will yield a nonpharmacological intervention prototype and delivery parameters that will inform a future efficacy study and have a strong potential for preserving or improving the quality of life of community-dwelling older adults with dementia and OA.