P4-Formal Social Support for Autonomy/dependence of Elders in Pain: the Mediating Role of Physical Functioning

Abstract

Background: Chronic pain (CP) is prevalent among elders and usually associated with high functional disability. Formal social support for autonomy/dependence promotion (PPA/PPD) influences pain experiences. However, little is known about the processes underlying this relationship. Thus, we aimed to explore the mediating role of physical functioning (PF) in the relationship between PPA/PPD and pain among older adults with CP. Methods: 118 elders (Mage=82) with CP completed the Formal Social Support for Autonomy and Dependence in Pain Inventory (Matos & Bernardes, 2013), the Brief Pain Inventory (Cleeland, 1989) and the PF scale of the 36-SF Health Survey (Ware & Sherbourne, 1992). Findings: PF partially mediated the relationship between PPA/PPD and Pain Disability. Higher PPA predicted lower pain disability and part of this effect was accounted for by PF (B=-.767, p<.001 decreased to B=-.485, p<.01). Higher PPD predicted higher pain disability and part of this effect was also accounted for by PF (B=.889, p<.01 decreased to B=.597, p<.05). Discussion: These results highlight the importance of considering the functions of PPA/PPD in managing elders’ CP experiences.