Pain is a common symptom among older residents of nursing homes and can lead to adverse effects such as a decrease in the
activities of daily living and quality of life. Existing literature on the prevalence of
pain among older residents of nursing homes was reviewed. Of the studies that were reviewed here, 27 met the criteria of this study, and these were selected for further analysis. These studies were published from 1990 to 2009. There was a slight increase in the number of studies on this topic from 2004 onwards. It was clear that older residents commonly suffer from
pain and other serious problems related to
pain. The prevalence of
pain in these studies appeared to be related to the research methods and data sources used as well as to the time frame of
pain detection. Therefore, the results of such prevalence studies should be interpreted cautiously. It was also reported that higher
pain intensity led to greater limitations in the
activities of daily living. Insufficient use of
analgesics for treating residents with
pain was often reported, particularly in residents with a low cognitive status. Health professionals should be aware of the serious issues related to
pain among
nursing home residents and the fundamental right to have
pain assessed and treated to the greatest extent possible.