The authors of a recent study published in Gerodontology investigated the epidemiology of headache and orofacial pain in Brazilian adults and elders. Study participants were evaluated on various factors such as socio-demographic characteristics, prevalence, and location of pain. A validated questionnaire was used to collect data about study participants' orofacial complaints. The study found that more than half of the population was experiencing pain, which is associated with comorbidities and the use of medication. 

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An article in Palliative Medicine evaluated a relaxation intervention delivered by palliative care physicians. The intervention consisted of progressive muscle relaxation combined with deep breathing and guided imagery. Primarily, physicians thought that the intervention was time consuming, but as time went on, they saw positive results and determined that the intervention was useful. The study reported that all patients showed an improvement in pain and the authors recommended that palliative care physicians should incorporate this relaxation intervention as a part of their routine care. Read full article  

A recent study published in Clinics in Geriatric Medicine sought to differentiate geriatrics and palliative care since the two often overlap. The authors focused on two essential topics, planning for extreme illness and death, and pain management, specifically in chronic pain. The authors determined that in the frail elderly, there is no "one size fits all" strategy. The study found that through thoughtful pain management, geriatrics and palliative care can provide helpful service to patients. Read full article