Experiences of women with osteoarthritis in assisted living facilities.

Purpose: Osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of disability in older adults. To help patients self-manage their arthritis, nurses need a better understanding of experiences of living with arthritis. Many older adults with symptomatic osteoarthritis may reside in supportive housing such as assisted living facilities. Recognizing challenges and symptoms may lead to improved health and quality of life, as well as greater independence, for older adults with osteoarthritis.

Methods: A naturalistic inquiry design was used to gather data from 23 older women. Transcriptions were analyzed by deconstruction and reconstruction.

Results: Final themes are Restricting and Constricting, with intermediate categories of Not doing because of disability, Not doing by choice, Limiting ability to move without assistive devices, and Living within confining spaces.

Conclusions/implications: Findings suggest the need for further examination of symptoms, symptom management, and interventions to improve healthcare and quality of life of patients with osteoarthritis.