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Formal and Informal Social Care in People With Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases: A Cross-Sectional Multicenter
Mehreen Somro1, Karen Durrant2, William G Dixon1,3,4
1Centre for Epidemiology Versus Arthritis, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.
Arthritis Care & Research
|March 6, 2026
Summary
Patients with rheumatic diseases often need help with daily activities but receive little formal social care, relying mainly on informal support. Multiple conditions increase the need for assistance, highlighting gaps in care provision.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Social Care Research
- Public Health
Background:
- Rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) are a major cause of disability, impacting daily living activities (ADLs).
- Understanding social care needs and provision for RMD patients is crucial for effective support systems.
- This study examines social care in urban (Salford) and rural (Norfolk) England.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the social care received by patients with RMDs.
- To compare formal and informal care provision across different regions.
- To identify factors associated with receiving social care support.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey of RMD patients in Salford and Norfolk.
- Data collected on care received, provider type, frequency, and duration.
- Logistic regression used to analyze factors influencing care receipt.
Main Results:
- High need for ADL assistance in both Salford (85%) and Norfolk (38%) cohorts.
- Most care was informal (family/friends); formal social care was minimal (0.5%-1.4%).
- Multiple conditions significantly increased the likelihood of receiving care (OR: 1.93-3.30).
Conclusions:
- Formal social care for RMD patients is significantly lacking.
- Patients predominantly rely on informal, often undocumented, care.
- Integrating social care reviews into rheumatology practice is recommended for comprehensive patient support.
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