Rheumatoid arthritis and older women: economics tell only part of the story

The triad of age, gender, and disabling chronic illness sets the stage for increased dependence and deprivation in later life. Women are three times more likely than men to be diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). As a prototype of a chronic illness, RA affects all dimensions of a woman's life, usually beginning with physical function, which results in loss of work, social, and recreational activities. Because women incur 40% more chronic illness and live longer than men do, they require more health care and supportive services as they age. Women typically earn less money during their working lives than do men and are more likely to be economically impoverished in old age. Research is needed to identify the multidimensional impact of RA on older women and to explore treatment, life-style, and work options that will help younger cohorts of women prepare for their economic needs in old age.