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  1. Community Life
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Living With Chronic Pain Back

Posted On: 1 April, 2019

Living with chronic pain is one of the most common experiences many seniors face daily. Chronic pain can result from a disability, injury (such as a fall), fibromyalgia, endometriosis, chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, shingles, nerve damage, and even unidentifiable causes. Chronic pain is typically defined as pain that persists beyond the expected time of healing (usually around 12 weeks). Pain in later life can result from neuropathies from diabetes, chemotherapy, surgery, or from advanced chronic disease.

The Risks of Chronic Pain

No matter the cause for chronic pain, one thing is universal; chronic pain takes a toll on your life and on the lives of those around you. The constant struggle with physical pain can lead to depression, social problems, and even loss of appetite and sleep. It may be difficult to have the desire to get up and out of the house when everything associated with that is very painful. It is possible to manage your symptoms and find pleasure in life despite the pain you experience.

What Seniors Can Do to Manage Chronic Pain

While chronic pain can be debilitating, there is a lot of hope when it comes to living a life filled with pleasure and happiness. Yes, chronic pain can be difficult to completely eliminate, but there are many ways you can reduce and manage your pain and regain your life.

  1. Discuss your pain with your doctor

A comprehensive geriatric pain assessment is an excellent tool your doctor can utilize to help understand and treat your chronic pain. Try to be as specific and honest as possible when describing your symptoms so you and your doctor can work together to find viable improvements with your pain.

2. Do things that energize you

This may sound silly, but finding ways to re-energize yourself not only distracts you from your chronic pain, but it will give you additional energy to live each day with more pleasure. Joining a social club, working part-time, volunteering, or spending time with family may just be what you’ve needed to take the focus off your pain.

3. Exercise regularly

It can be hard to understand why exercising when you hurt badly can be something that is helpful. According to Dr. Wayne McCormick at the Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine at the University of Washington, staying active and exercising regularly is one of the most effective ways to make living with chronic pain more tolerable.

4. Explore therapeutic options

Cognitive behavior therapy, self management training, and physical therapy are all options that may help in developing coping mechanisms that may make living with pain more tolerable. You may learn techniques that help you manage the stress pain causes, and may steer you clear of depression that can accompany chronic pain.

5. Involve those around you

You do not have to suffer alone! Find out if there is a support group in your community where you can connect with others that understand the challenges of living with chronic pain. Lean on your loved ones. They love you and want to help you. Whether its running an errand, taking you to an appointment, or just helping with a few things around your house; they are a wonderful resource to utilize.

Chronic pain is a very real, serious condition. It is important to communicate with those around you as honestly as possible when you are experiencing pain. Doing so not only avoids misunderstandings, but it also allows others to help and love you. There is a lot of hope when it comes to living with chronic pain. Work with your doctor, communicate with those around you, and engage in good self-care to manage your symptoms and find pleasure in life despite the pain you experience.

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I have been a resident at The Barrington for several years and I am a widow. I am happy here; never lonely, very safe, with friends and a caring staff.

Corinne Lerch

The first time I walked into the Barrington I had a very warm feeling. The entire staff is very caring and helpful. I enjoy all the activities and social events that we have. I really enjoy the food; our chef does a great job. I feel that there is something for everyone here to in enjoy here at The Barrington. I have made some wonderful friends with the residents and staff. The Barrington is a…

Peggy Sonnier

I came to the Barrington in 2009; this place saved my life. The room my daughter picked out for me overlooks the school and the children who go there. The trees and the surrounding grounds are beautiful. I love to walk outdoors and meditate. I also enjoy our trips to the beaches and parks. I am on the welcoming committee, serve at happy hour, and I go with the Marketing Team to do outreach. This…

Elizabeth Young

The Barrington in Largo, FL, was recommended to us by A Place for Mom as an option for my parents. My wife and I visited The Barrington for a tour. We were greeted by Sherrie (Regional Supervisor, Tarantino Properties) for our visit. Sherrie was extremely knowledgeable & professional; a great representative for The Barrington. We also met Linda (Nurse Administrator) in order to describe the care…

Chip C.

I love it here. This place is just like next to heaven. It's as close as you can get.

Ada

I love it! Katie and Amber are so helpful and keep me involved. Everyone is so kind here. I love bingo. We have such sweet, sweet people working here. The food is outstanding too!

Naomi

I love it here. Katie and Amber are the reason I love it here. You both are exactly why I love every day here.

Sally

There are just so many activities here that it's hard to choose what to do. I love the poker on Thursday nights. It's been an easy transition for me.

Jim

The people that work here are really nice and attentive. I like playing Scrabble and staying busy. Our walking club is really fun. I love being outside. Our walkway around the building is so nice. I always like when they come in and help me get ready for my day in the morning. The Parkinson's program is so nice to get my day started too.

Rose

I like the activities here. That's my favorite part. We painted bird houses and now they're in the courtyard. I love the entertainment here. The music is from the right era! I am really happy.

Millie

About The Barrington

Our well trained, compassionate and experienced staff are here to help and be by your side from the moment you first walk through our doors until you hang your last picture on your new home's wall. At the Barrington, we understand how important your retirement years are, after all, you have worked hard to retire with ease. We understand that each person's situation is unique and we continually work with each of our residents on a case-by-case basis to ensure specific needs and concerns are met.

Whether you have just retired, need some assistance, or are trying to find the perfect location for a loved one, let the Barrington give you and your loved ones peace of mind. If companionship, full amenities, and a hospitable staff are desired, the Barrington is sure to meet your expectations.

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