The Impact of Chronic Pain: the Perspective of Patients, Relatives and Caregivers

Abstract

Objective. To assess the impact of chronic pain on the family environment from the patient’s, relative’s and caregiver’s perspective. Methods. A cross-sectional study on a representative sample of Spanish adults that suffered pain at least 4 days a week for ≥3 months, and on relatives and caregivers of patients that fulfilled these criteria. The characteristics of pain and the perception of its impact on the family environment was assessed, using logistic regression models to reveal the variables associated with the impact of pain on the family. Results. From a total of 1,957 subjects, 325 suffered chronic pain and 34.6% of them perceived that their pain affected their family environment. These patients recognized a stronger impact when their relatives were sad (OR=3.61; CI:1.57, 8.27) and had modified the leisure activities because of the pain (OR=3.62; CI:1.56, 8.38). Among the 131 relatives, 51.2% perceived that pain was affecting the family, causing changes in their leisure activities (OR=1.17; CI:1.04, 9.94) and sleep disturbance (OR=1.40; CI:1.32, 12.58). Of the 36 caregivers, mainly women over 50 years of age, 66.7% indicated that pain affected the family, although 72.8% were satisfied with the help they provided. Conclusion. Chronic pain has a very strong impact on the family, although this is perceived distinctly by patients, relatives and caregivers. Recognising that factors related to pain affect the family’s well-being, and adopting a global approach to pain that takes into consideration the family’s experiences, should improve the therapeutic response, and enhance the patient’s and relative’s quality of life.