Pain is common in older adults and can hurt your quality of life.

Studies show that up to 80% of people aged 85 and older have pain. Up to half of older adults who live at home have long-lasting pain. Rates are even higher for people in nursing homes. Many people do not report the pain they feel.

Common Types of Pain

Pain can be new (acute) or long-lasting (persistent or chronic). A person can have both types at the same time.

• Acute pain starts suddenly and usually does not last long. It is caused by an injury, surgery, or other damage. When the injury heals, the pain usually goes away.
• Persistent pain lasts 3 months or longer. It may not be linked to a disease or injury. People are more likely to have this type of pain if they have health problems, obesity, or a history of childhood trauma or abuse. This type of pain can make it hard to do everyday activities.

Right to Treatment

Everyone has the right to get treatment for their pain so that they can:

• Improve their quality of life
• Think and remember more clearly
• Feel less depressed and anxious
• Sleep better
• Eat well
• Stay active and healthier
• Stay independent
• Enjoy time with family and friends

Report Pain to Healthcare Professional

Pain is common in older adults, but it is often not diagnosed or treated. This can hurt your quality of life. Pain is not a normal part of aging. Tell your healthcare provider about any pain you have so you can talk about your options.

Common reasons why people may not report pain to their healthcare professional include:

• Believing that pain is normal or part of getting older
• Cultural beliefs about pain or language barriers
• Having trouble thinking or communicating
• Worrying that pain will get worse as their illness gets worse
• Wanting to avoid expensive treatments
• Being afraid of getting addicted to pain medicine
• Not wanting to seem like a complainer
• Not wanting to be a burden to others

Last Updated May 2026