Effectiveness of self-management program on arthritis symptoms among older women: A randomized controlled trial study

Abstract

Introduction: Evidence supports the use of educational programs among older people with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). And Community-based health interventions have been shown to be effective in promoting arthritis selfmanagement amongst older people. We aimed to determine the effectiveness of a self-management program amongst older women with rheumatoid arthritis. Methods: After coordination with rheumatology clinic and checking the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the participants (80 people) entered into the study by randomly method and listed. Then the participants entered into two groups by using simple random sampling method. The intervention group completed a 6- week arthritis self-management program and exercise part. Assessments were recorded prior to the intervention in week 1 and after the intervention, five months from baseline. Data collection included: Demographic questionnaire, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), pain and function Self-efficacy subscales, Short Depression Scale (CES-D 10), and self- reported questions regarding mobility. Results: The results showed that significant improvement in arthritis self-efficacy function (p < .000) and arthritis self-efficacy pain (p < 0.000). In addition, significant decreases was found in term of depression (p < 0.000), but no changes were found in mobility outcome (p= 0/362) and pain Intensity (p=0/498) compared with the control groups. Significant improvements in self-efficacy for functional ability and pain management were found in the intervention group compared to those before the intervention and the control group. Conclusions: Findings of the current clinical trials suggest that arthritis selfmanagement programs result in beneficial effect on self-efficacy function and pain scores. If the results are confirmed by future studies in older people, application of this educational and supportive program could be useful to empower the older women and help them to manage their disease and could pave the way for active aging.