Factors Associated With Pain Frequency Among Adults With Chronic Conditions

Context: Chronic pain affects approximately 100 million Americans, but little is known about the factors associated with pain frequency. Objectives: This article examines participants’ sociodemographics, medical history, health care access and utilization, self-management barriers, and social support associated with pain frequency among a sample of middle-aged and older adults with one or more chronic condition. Methods: Data were from the National Council on Aging Chronic Care Survey. An ordinal regression model was fitted to examine factors associated with self-reported pain frequency. Results: Having more chronic conditions (P < 0.001), taking more medication daily (P < 0.001), and visiting the physician five or more times a year (P = 0.011) were associated with more frequent pain. Always getting the help and support needed to manage their health problems was associated with less frequent pain (P < 0.001). Conclusion: More attention should be given to pain management during interactions with health care providers. Providing resources and support for disease self-management may help reduce pain frequency and self-management in middle-aged and older adults with chronic conditions.