Persistent Pain Impacts Daily Lives of Older Adults and Caregivers
News related to:Alliance for Aging Research · 1 min read
WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- This Pain Awareness Month, a survey by the Alliance for Aging Research highlights the significant impact that persistent pain has on older adults and their caregivers. The survey, which included close to 1,000 adults aged 55 and older, and 500 unpaid caregivers, underscores the daily challenges faced by those managing chronic pain.
According to the survey, nearly 70% of the consumer respondents reported that persistent pain interfered with their daily activities, either a lot or to a moderate extent. Among caregivers, the figure was even higher, with 79% stating that persistent pain significantly impacted their loved ones' daily activities.
Despite the widespread burden of pain, only 6% of consumer respondents said their pain management approach was very effective. A concerning 28% found their current methods to be either not very effective or not effective at all.
Duration of relief is a top concern. More than 69% of consumers said that pain relief lasts only 4 to 6 hours or less. To manage this, many consumers turn to combining over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications, a practice that is not always advisable. For instance, 34% of consumer respondents reported combining an OTC nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with a prescription one, and 25% took OTC acetaminophen along with a prescription acetaminophen-opioid combination.
The constant management of pain is also taking a toll on caregivers. Over two-thirds (67%) of caregivers reported that they worry about their ability to manage their loved one's pain effectively.
The Alliance for Aging Research, which has been working for 40 years to improve the quality of life for older adults, believes that advances in research can help people live longer, happier, and more productive lives.
The survey was conducted by Reingold, a strategic communications firm, with support from Kenvue Inc. The findings underscore the need for a broader range of effective, individualized pain management options that not only help people manage their pain but also maintain function, independence, and quality of life.