Lived Experiences with Arthritis among Older People

Arthritis is one of the many disabling diseases in the Philippines today. Its effects on the older persons are paramount in terms of productivity and quality of life. This study identified the experiences of older people with arthritis in Cagayan de Oro City. A descriptive method was used. The study was conducted at the office of Senior Citizen’s Organization, Cagayan de Oro City. The respondents were members of OSCA (Office of Senior Citizen Affairs) who are affected by arthritis. An interview schedule was used in the gathering of data. The majority of older people are still living under the debilitative and disabling effects of arthritis despite the advancement of medical management. Without proper medical management of arthritis, quality life for older people with arthritis shall remain to be attained. Effective ways must be done to deliver education, knowledge and understanding of arthritis to the older individuals.

 

Keywords - lived experiences, arthritis, older people