Learning Objective #1: Discuss the feasibility of a nurse-guided pain management program for older adults (ages 65 and older) in a community setting

Learning Objective #2: Discribe factors contributing to non-adherence to the intervention regimen and attrition for older adults participating in the program

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Recent epidemiological studies estimated that approximately 40 to 60% of community-dwelling older adults lived with some form of chronic pain. More than 50% of older adults with chronic nonmalignant pain (CNP) report they are unsatisfied with the outcome of their pain management. Purpose: The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate the content of a nurse-guided pain management program (NGPM) that offered cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for older adults with CNP who regularly practiced Tai Chi Chuan exercise (TCC). Method: A two-phase pilot project was proposed to develop and refine the content of the NGPM. The Phase 1 was focus on the development of the content of NGPM prior to its implementation. A formative evaluation research approach was used in Phase 2 of the implementation of the NGPM; both qualitative and quantitative research methods were applied. A convenience sample (n = 6) was recruited from a local TCC center. The mean age of the participants (n = 6) was 72.25 years with a range of 68 to 77 years. Two participants withdrew from the study before completing the program due to family affairs. Findings: Given the small sample size, there was not enough power to show significant differences between pretest and posttest. However, participants completed the 6-week NGPM program, on average, reported increases in overall quality of life and decreases in bodily pain.. High adherence to intervention regimen was observed; more than 96% of the time, participants were able adhere to the intervention regimen. Conclusion: The results concerning overall quality of life and pain intensity suggest C-BT to be a promising approach to manage CNP experienced by older adults. Contributing factors of attribution include death of family members and extended travel plan; physical condition may play a role in non-adherence to program regimen.