No. 34 - Seniors experiencing chronic pain

A substantial number of seniors report that they suffer from chronic pain or discomfort. In 1999, 27% of seniors living at home reported they experienced chronic pain or discomfort, compared with just over 21% of those aged 55-64 and only 13% of those between the ages of 25 and 54.

Older seniors are more likely than their younger counterparts to experience chronic pain or discomfort. In 1999, 38% of people aged 85 and over living at home suffered from chronic pain, compared with 29% of those aged 75-84 and 24% of those aged 65-74. As well, among seniors, women are somewhat more likely than men, 28% versus 25%, to suffer from chronic pain.

For many seniors, chronic pain prevents them from participating in certain activities. In 1999, 22% of seniors suffering from chronic pain said they were unable to participate in almost all activities because of the pain or discomfort, while another quarter were restricted to some extent.

Percentage of seniors experiencing chronic pain
or discomfort, 1999