Chronic pain is classified as persistent or recurrent pain for more than 3 months associated with physical disability, depression and poor psychosocial functioning among older adults; causing a dependence on medication and decreasing their quality of life. There are various treatment options from chronic pain, but the benefits on pain outcomes are minimal and rather short term. Psychological interventions, such as acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), have shown positive effect on older adults with chronic pain. Using the three core elements of psychological flexibility, older adults are encouraged to establish a different relationship with pain: 1) be present; 2) do what matters; and 3) open up. Growing studies are exploring the application of biopsychosocial model in pain management, using multidisciplinary interventions. This RCT aims to explore the effectiveness of combining ACT and exercise with two arms: 1) art and exercise; and 2) treatment as usual.
The objective is to investigate on the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Exercise in:~(Primary outcomes)~Increasing psychological flexibility~Reducing pain interference~Increasing quality of life~Increasing physical functioning~(Secondary outcomes)~Reducing psychological distress - depression & anxiety