|
|
The quality of life for elderly nursing home residents is profoundly
impacted by pain and stress. While standard treatment often relies entirely
on pharmacological approaches, recent research indicates that elderly
patients with chronic pain can benefit from the use of alternative,
non-pharmacological approaches. A psychoeducational
group therapy program for chronic pain, anxiety and distress, modeled
on the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program at the University
of Massachussetts Medical Center, was introduced into a 514-bed academic
nursing home. Group members practiced breathing exercises, meditation,
visualization, and guided imagery. Music and aromatherapy were also
utilized to provide a calming milieu. In addition, group tasks focused
on reframing responses to difficult situations and empowering the residents.
Members were taught to practice techniques in response to pain and stressful
episodes. Pre and posttests, using the Coop scales measuring emotional
wellbeing and level of pain, showed that following the Relaxation Group,
nursing home residents felt less sad and showed a trend towards feeling
less pain. McBee L. Westreich L and Likourezos A. “A psychoeducational
relaxation group for pain and stress management in the nursing home.”
Journal of Social Work in Long-Term Care. 3(1):15-28, 2004.
https://www.haworthpress.com/store/ArticleAbstract.asp?sid=469TNGK3F20K8KD57KJ1SB4QEEMM96B6&ID=43518
|