Psychosocial and functional difficulties in older adults with chronic non-specific low back pain

Abstract Background Chronic non-specific low back pain (CNLBP) is an important health problem affecting people of all ages in societies. This health problem increases especially with age and participation restrictions and quality of life are negatively affected accordingly. This study was conducted to investigate the participation levels, pain, kinesiophobia, functional status and depression among older adults with CNLBP. Method This descriptive and correlational study included 115 cognitively healthy older people over the age of 65 who applied to a state hospital with CNLBP. Data were collected using the Demographic Information Form, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Visual Analog Scale, Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia, Back Pain Function Scale, Keele Participation Assessment Scale and Geriatric Depression Scale. Data were evaluated using descriptive statistics, independent sample t-test, correlation and regression analyses. Results The mean age of the older adults participating in the study was 71.90 ± 6.64. According to the results obtained, it was found that as the level of social participation of the older adults decreased, their depression, kinesiophobia and pain levels increased and their functional levels decreased. It was determined that social participation could explain 45% of functional losses and 20–25% of psychological symptoms. Conclusion According to the findings, CNLBP has critical effects not only on the physical but also on the psychosocial status of the older people. Therefore, incorporating psychosocial factors affecting older adults into holistic rehabilitation plans is key to the successful treatment of CNLBP. Trial registration Not applicable.