Use of prescription opioid medication among community-dwelling older adults with noncancer chronic pain

Research exploring the use of prescription opioid medications among community-dwelling older adults is lacking within the current body of health related literature. Previous studies on prescription opioid use have focused on misuse among young and middle-aged adults. The purpose of this pilot study was to: (1) describe older adults' patterns of adherence to their prescription opioid medication regimens and their reasons for these medication use patterns; and (2) examine the associations between adherence of prescription opioids, pain intensity, and pain interference on daily activity. This study utilized a cross-sectional design. Twenty-one participants aged 65 years and older with non-cancer chronic pain were recruited for this study. Findings revealed that almost half of the study participants reported taking less prescription opioids than prescribed, with 2 participants taking more than the recommended dose. There was no significant association between prescription opioid medication adherence and pain intensity. Participants with lower medication adherence reported greater pain interference with sleep (r = -.595; P < .05). It is imperative that clinicians initiate discussion with older adult clients who are prescribed opioid medications in order to evaluate their patients' adherence and the effectiveness of the medication.