Pain Relief for Dementia Patients
Pain in Dementia is woefully overlooked.
The first treatment I have for those with agitation is Tylenol*. As an elder progresses in dementia… they may be irritable from pain, but not recognize where the pain (and therefore the agitation) comes from.
Takehome: Dementia never cured arthritis.
The most common cause of pain is osteoarthritis (old bones). For muscle/joint pains medications like Motrin, Naprosyn can help the pain. However, long term these meds (non-steroidal anti-inflammatorys NSAIDS) increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart failure, kidney failure, stomach or other bleed, heart attack, stroke and worsening dementia.
Tylenol can be taken by most elders without liver disease and will not cause the above problems. Physical therapy, massage, topical treatments and for severe pain even low dose Norco can help (risks of constipation, sedation-with any sedating meds, falls).
It is always best to treat pain with therapy and the appropriate pain relieving meds and taper the psych meds which may cause sedation with the pain meds.Only when I think the pain is fairly well treated will I start giving psych meds. The goal is never to sedate the elder.
A person with dementia may not recognize what is causing irritation (in this case pain) and may wince when getting out of bed, or walking, or moving. They may furrow their brow, yell when the blood pressure cuff is inflated, or feet with neuropathy are touched. Watch. If a simple movement results in an agitated response…. it may be pain.
Dr Liz Geriatrics is fortunate to have experienced care managers, nurses and social workers to assist families in sorting through the confusing care issues, how to de-escalate aggression, improve sleep (for the elder, and the caregiver!), minimize medications, help find resources and how to find time for self care.
Of course, our book, Living in the Moment: Overcoming Challenges and Finding Moments of Joy in Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias is an invaluable resource for the complete dementia journey from start to finish.
We are committed to supporting dementia caregivers. With expert advice and a compassionate community, you’ll have the tools to provide the needed care for your loved one.
Whether you’re looking for caregiver tips or one-on-one support, we’re here to guide you through this journey.
*Often Tylenol Long Acting 650 mg twice a day- unless liver problems, as your doctor.