Prevalence and Management of Pain, by Race and Dementia Among Nursing Home Residents: United States, 2004

Pain is common among nursing home residents, and effective pain management has an impact on improving quality of life (1,2). Previous research has shown race differences in pain reporting and management in various settings, with racial and ethnic minority groups less likely than white residents to report pain and receive adequate treatment (3–9). Other studies have documented cognitive impairment as a barrier in the detection and self-report of pain, with the underreporting likely resulting in undertreatment (10–15). However, the relationships among race, dementia, and pain reporting and management remain understudied. This report explores the combined impact of race and a diagnosis of dementia on reporting or showing signs of pain and pain management among nursing home residents.