Examining how cognitive reserve affects pain and thinking in older adults with chronic pain

The Association Between Cognitive Reserve, Pain Catastrophizing, and Cognitive Function in Geriatric Patients With Chronic Pain: A Cross-sectional Study

Observational Ahram Canadian University · NCT05933564

This study looks at how having a strong mental reserve might affect the way older adults with chronic pain think and feel about their pain.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment110 (estimated)
Ages65 Years to 85 Years
SexAll
SponsorAhram Canadian University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Al Ḩayy Ath Thāmin, Giza)
Trial IDNCT05933564 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore the relationship between cognitive reserve, pain catastrophizing, and cognitive function in geriatric patients suffering from chronic pain. It will assess whether cognitive reserve can influence the impact of pain-related anxiety on cognitive abilities. The study will involve participants aged 65 to 85 who have been experiencing chronic pain for at least three months due to osteoarthritis or neuropathic conditions. No interventions will be administered, as this is a cross-sectional analysis.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are older adults aged 65 to 85 who have chronic pain related to osteoarthritis or neuropathic conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with neurodegenerative disorders, significant head injuries, or severe psychiatric illnesses may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could help identify factors that improve cognitive function in older adults dealing with chronic pain.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this study may be novel, similar studies have indicated that cognitive factors can influence pain perception and management in older adults.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged 65 to 85 years
* Experiencing chronic pain (≥3 months) attributable to osteoarthritis or neuropathic conditions
* Able to read, write, and speak the language in which assessments are administered
* Willing and able to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disorder (e.g., Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease)
* History of significant head injury, stroke, or brain tumor
* Current substance abuse or dependence
* Severe psychiatric illness (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder)
* Significant sensory or motor impairments that may interfere with the ability to complete assessments

Where this trial is running

Al Ḩayy Ath Thāmin, Giza

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Chronic Pain
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.