Arthritis

Abstract

Arthritis is a common condition associated with aging, beginning at any age and accumulating thereafter. Over 50% of all elderly (age > 70) living in the community report arthritis and over half have specific physical limitations. These limitations, particularly if one can no longer perform a basic personal function such as dressing or bathing, independently predict an increased risk for institutionalization and even death (Yelin, 1992). Arthritis by exam is present in 25% of nursing home residents and caused the nursing home move in 15% of those residents who did not have cognitive impairment (Guccione et al., 1989). Arthritis may result in significant disability and a host of problems which accompany enforced social isolation and functional limitation. Surveys in elderly persons (age > 60) living in the community show high rates of medication use (23%), appliance dependency (15%), and home health aide assistance (10%) (Taylor and Ford, 1984) in those with arthritis.