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Some people with osteoarthritis need help with their medicines and daily tasks. If you live with someone who has osteoarthritis, you may be asked to help. But, in most cases, what he or she needs most is emotional support and understanding.
Ways you can help
- Encourage exercise. If you can, be an exercise partner. You can share in the activities and your own health will benefit, too.
- Help keep your loved one eating right. Promote a balanced diet and follow it yourself. This is very important if your loved one needs to lose weight.
- Look for aids that can make your loved one’s daily life easier. He or she will welcome being more independent. Read more in Equipment & Devices.
- Keep the telephone numbers of your loved one’s healthcare team handy. For example, doctor or pharmacist numbers.
- Carry a list of medicines your loved one takes. Post a copy on the refrigerator or another handy spot.
- Go to doctor appointments with your loved one and learn about his or her condition.
- Be alert to signs of depression in your loved one: Moodiness, irritability, trouble sleeping.
- Be positive. It makes a difference!
Help yourself
It’s normal to feel loss, sadness, or anger about your loved one’s condition. Don’t ignore the feelings.
Talk openly with your loved one about your feelings. Get professional counseling if you feel it will help. The faster you learn to cope with the changes in your life, the faster you’ll be able to support your loved one.
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