Changes over time to self-managed chronic pain treatments are not a routine part of pain management discussions and might provide insight into adjustments that improve pain outcomes.
The purpose of this study was to develop and test an electronic pain management life history calendar (ePMLHC) for use with older adults with chronic pain.
An instrument development design was used to develop and test the ePMLHC.
Twenty-four community-dwelling older adults with osteoarthritis pain completed the ePMLHC describing their pain treatment regimens and treatment response history. Accuracy of the ePMLHC data was examined through post-ePMLHC audiorecorded interviews, with the older adults describing their pain treatment history. Feedback on use of the ePMLHC was also measured. An iterative process was used to refine and retest the ePMLHC. The final ePMLHC version was examined with the remaining 12 older adults.
Significant differences between data reported via the ePMLHC and interviews did not support feasibility of independently reported data via the ePMLHC. Older adults reported that completing the ePMLHC helped them more fully self-reflect on their pain self-management.
The ePMLHC has the potential to enhance communication about past pain management treatments and promote more personalized pain treatment regimens, but further development is required.