Abstract
Introduction: Pain acceptance is a crucial and appropriate response for older adults with mobility issues to adapt to life changes. Investigating factors related to chronic pain acceptance can significantly assist nurses in better managing and providing self-care education to this patient group. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between chronic pain acceptance, life satisfaction, and adherence to treatment regimens in older adults with mobility problems who were referred to teaching hospitals in Urmia.
Methods: This study employed a descriptive-correlational design. The statistical population comprised patients with musculoskeletal mobility disorders referred to the teaching hospitals of Urmia University of Medical Sciences between April and September 2021. Overall, 214 participants were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected using a four-part questionnaire. Eventually, the data were analyzed using SPSS 16 and Pearson’s correlation coefficient.
Results: The mean total score for pain acceptance was 70.46±10.53. The majority of participating older adults (62.3%) demonstrated low treatment adherence. Moreover, the mean overall life satisfaction score was 16.97±3.76. There was a statistically significant correlation between chronic pain acceptance and medication adherence (r=0.36, P=0.006). Additionally, a statistically significant relationship was found between chronic pain acceptance and life satisfaction (r=0.86, P<0.001).
Conclusion: In general, adherence to treatment and life satisfaction are valuable health outcomes that necessitate adaptation to the chronic pain associated with musculoskeletal mobility issues in older adults. Accepting these life challenges can lead to a more meaningful and satisfying life.