Trajectory of Living with Chronic Non-malignant Pain in Older Adults: Situation-Specific Theory

Introduction: The design of a nursing-specific theory will support improving care from a gerontological-geriatric approach. Given the rise of the elderly population and the diverse pathological conditions that chronic pain triggers, this theory integrates physical-functional, cognitive-psychological and socio-family aspects, which support care with this theoretical approach. Objective: To construct a situation-specific theory that explains the phenomenon of the trajectory of the disease that causes chronic non-malignant pain in the elderly. Methodology and Materials: This was a five-stage theoretical study: 1) theoretical construction, 2) construction of principal concepts, 3) construction of the theoretical articulation, 4) construction of propositions and empirical indicators to establish causal relationships, and 5) construction of evidence for the nursing practice. Results: The antecedent is derived from Weiner and Dodd’s Nursing Trajectory theory. Four metaparadigm concepts and fourteen main concepts were described, a theoretical articulation was developed, eight propositions were constructed, and seven empirical indicators were developed to establish causal relationships that function as evidence for the practice. The scope of the theory and the implications for the nursing practice are also presented. Conclusion: This theory allows identifying the process and the necessary considerations to accompany an elderly person living with chronic non-malignant pain. It includes the organization, temporality, identity, and body as fundamental concepts. This theory’s proposal establishes a precedent to apply these concepts in gerontological-geriatric consultations and interventions.