SolveYourProblem Article Series: Arthritis
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How Do I Care For Someone With Arthritis?

Without a doubt, the individual that has received a diagnosis of arthritis is going to have their life change dramatically. They will be faced with a great many challenges and they deserve as much support and care as possible. But they will not be the only one faced with challenges and change. A new responsibility will fall upon those that may find themselves the primary caregivers.

Are you the only caregiveer or will you have help: YES / NO ?

The role of a caregiver can vary from case to case. Some individuals with arthritis may be able to cope fairly well and with only some adjustment in their daily routine. The situation of others may be far more difficult.

How big of an adjustment will it be for you: ____________________.

Initially it is important to gain as much knowledge as possible about what type of arthritis your loved one has and become well informed as to the type of treatment they will be receiving and how it will affect them. If possible it would be helpful to be with them on their visits to the doctor as this will enable you to keep up to date on their progress and any adjustments they need to make. Often it is a blessing to have someone there who can help remember instructions or details that may go in one ear and out the other for the patient who is under stress.

Have you taken this step: YES / NO ?

The next important step is to have open and honest communication. This isn't always easy and may require a great deal of tact and patience. It is not easy to understand everything they are going through but you want them to know that you are trying to and that you intend to be there for them as much as possible. Studies have shown that people who have this disease fare better when they are not in stressful or negative situations.

How can you improve the communication barriers: ____________________.

You're going to have stressful and negative situations. Don't get too discouraged - this is only normal. As you try to adjust your life and help your companion remember that you will need to look out for yourself as well. To not get over tired and taxed. It may mean that you find a way to step back a little. Search out a support group that can empathize and give you ideas on how to mitigate the stressful times. And above all, try to maintain an honest approach whereby both you and the one you're caring for can move forward in a positive way.

What are the support groups in your area: ____________________.

On a practical note, the care you give may mean that you will be the one to run the errands more often. Or you may have to divide up the chores so that you take on the heavier ones. But it is important to keep in mind that your loved one needs to keep involved and active for their health as well, so it shouldn't mean that as a caregiver that you must now do everything. It just means a readjustment. Look for ways to make simple functions around the house a bit easier. Perhaps installing lifting bars in the bathroom, finding more comfortable furniture, or buying tools that are user friendly to arthritic persons.

What can you do to make life easier: ____________________.

Another fine area of support is to be a good listener. So much help can be given when a person can talk out their fears and anxieties. Be as straightforward and practical as you can be even though it is an emotional situation. This will help to maintain a positive and forward moving attitude that is essential to eventually achieving the best quality of life possible.

And remember - this is a learning process for both of you and you will have to give yourselves time to adjust.

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by SolveYourProblem.com : 2009

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