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Living with osteoarthritis: insiders' views
1School of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, Georgia State University, Atlanta 30302-4019, USA.
Applied Nursing Research : ANR
|April 29, 1998
Summary
Older adults with osteoarthritis (OA) manage symptoms differently based on socioeconomic status. Tailoring nursing interventions to individual circumstances is crucial for effective osteoarthritis management.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Rheumatology
- Sociology
Background:
- Symptomatic osteoarthritis (OA) significantly impacts the daily lives of older adults.
- Socioeconomic status may influence how individuals perceive and manage chronic conditions like OA.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the lived experiences of older adults with symptomatic osteoarthritis (OA).
- To investigate potential differences in OA management strategies across various socioeconomic strata.
Main Methods:
- A qualitative phenomenological approach was employed.
- Semistructured interviews were conducted with 20 older adults experiencing symptomatic OA.
Main Results:
- Four key themes emerged: refusing to give up, pragmatism toward treatment, staying in charge, and tangible caring.
- Significant differences were observed between socioeconomically advantaged and less advantaged respondents regarding reported problems, preferred treatments, and identified causes of OA.
Conclusions:
- Individual experiences of OA and its management are diverse and influenced by socioeconomic factors.
- Effective nursing management of OA requires tailored interventions that consider the unique circumstances of each patient.