Feasibility Trial of a Mind–Body Activity Pain Management Program for Older Adults With Cognitive Decline

Abstract Background and Objectives The relationship between chronic pain (CP) and cognitive decline (CD) is bidirectional among older adults. The CP–CD comorbidity can progressively worsen cognitive, physical, emotional, and social functioning with aging. We explored the feasibility and outcomes ass...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:The Gerontologist 2021-11, Vol.61 (8), p.1326-1337
Main Authors: Mace, Ryan A, Gates, Melissa V, Popok, Paula J, Kulich, Ron, Quiroz, Yakeel T, Vranceanu, Ana-Maria
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Aged
Aging
Chronic Pain - therapy
Cognition
Cognitive ability
Cognitive Dysfunction
Comorbidity
Dementia
Feasibility Studies
Gerontology
Humans
Intervention Research
Mind body relationship
Older people
Pain
Pain Management
Qualitative research
Research design
Studies
Walking
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Summary:Abstract Background and Objectives The relationship between chronic pain (CP) and cognitive decline (CD) is bidirectional among older adults. The CP–CD comorbidity can progressively worsen cognitive, physical, emotional, and social functioning with aging. We explored the feasibility and outcomes associated with 2 mind–body activity programs for CP and CD that focus on increasing walking using time goals (Active Brains) or step-count reinforced via Fitbit (Active Brains–Fitbit). Research Design and Methods Older adults with CP and CD participated in a nonrandomized open pilot of Active Brains (n = 6) and Active Brains–Fitbit (n = 6) followed by exit interviews. Quantitative analysis explored feasibility markers and signals of improvement on physical, cognitive, and emotional function, as well as additional program targets. Qualitative analyses were predominantly deductive and applied the Framework Method to enhance the programs and methodology. Results Both programs met a priori feasibility benchmarks. We found within-group improvements for pain intensity, pain-specific coping, physical function, and cognitive function in both programs. Exit interviews confirmed high satisfaction with both programs. Discussion and Implications Our mixed-methods data provide preliminary evidence of feasibility, showed promise for improving outcomes, and yielded critical information to further enhance the programs. We discuss “lessons learned” and future directions.
ISSN:0016-9013
1758-5341
DOI:10.1093/geront/gnaa179