Background: Chronic pain has emerged as a significant public health priority. Despite its associated burden, it is recognized that individuals differ in their experience of and ability to cope with pain. While some are adversely impacted, others maintain adaptive psychological functioning even in the context of severe pain, suggesting a high degree of resilience in this population. However, limited research has considered the role of positive, psychological resources in promoting pain resilience and therapeutic strategies that focus on strengths and personal resources in chronic pain have been understudied. 

Aims: The purpose of this study was to examine the feasibility and acceptability of an intervention aimed at enhancing psychological resilience among older adults with chronic low back pain (cLBP), and to assess preliminary treatment effects on pain severity, pain interference, and quality of life.

Method: Participants included 50 adults, ages >50 years, with back pain rated (at minimum) of moderate severity (>3/10) and having a significant impact on daily activities. This single-arm trial included 7 weekly telehealth group sessions (1.5 hours each) targeting positive psychology concepts (i.e., positive affect, gratitude, hopeful thinking) and techniques (e.g., mindfulness) that have established benefits in pain management. 

Results: Results demonstrated high credibility (M=7.7/10, SD=1.6) and engagement (M=6.3/8, SD=1.0) in the treatment program. Participants found the weekly session content to be useful (M=3.0/4, SD=0.78) and global treatment satisfaction was high (M=3.4/4, SD=0.50). Pain severity (t=4.9, p<.001), pain interference (t=4.8, p<.001), and quality of life (t=-2.1, p=.04) significantly improved from pre- to post-intervention, and these effects were maintained at the 3-month follow-up. 

Conclusion: Findings support the feasibility and potential efficacy of a resilience intervention for older adults with cLBP. Participants found the program to be engaging and acceptable, and significant positive changes were observed for pain-related outcomes. These findings may be a step toward the advancement of therapeutic pain modalities and provide a foundation for future research on resilience-based interventions for geriatric populations with chronic pain.