The Common Problem That Affects Millions.

Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in a joint. In the UK, millions of people are affected. Its various forms cause problems on a daily basis and there’s no known cure, but don’t worry, help is out there.

“Regular physical activity can keep the muscles around affected joints strong, decrease bone loss and may help control joint swelling and pain.”

The All Inclusive Condition

Arthritis doesn’t discriminate, it affects those of all ages and genres. It usually begins during the mid-40s and has a hugely negative impact on the health and mobility of those in later life.

Loneliness and Stress

Whether you are a retired footballer, guitarist, dancer or someone who just enjoys being active, joint pain can take a toll; not just on your physical health, but on your mental wellbeing too. Loneliness can lead to stress and have a hugely adverse effect on mental health, increasing the risk of death in older people by 26%. Our End Loneliness is Later Life campaign aims to prevent social anxiety and boost social connections. Donate now. See opposite…

Types of Arthritis

There are many different types of arthritis but here are the two most common types…

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. It can worsen in later life and also occur as a result of an injury. Osteoarthritis affects the smooth cartilage lining of the joint, making movement difficult, leading to pain and stiffness. The cartilage lining thins out, so tendons and ligaments have to work much harder. In severe cases it can leave bone rubbing on bone; altering the shape of the joint and forcing bones out of their normal position. The most commonly affected areas are hands, spine, knees and hips.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is less common than osteoarthritis and often begins between the ages of 30 and 50, again worsening in later life. In rheumatoid arthritis, the body’s immune system targets affected joints, causing swelling and pain.

Treatments and Cure

There may be no cure but there is hope and treatment. 

Doctors stress the importance of exercise and healthy living as treatments for all forms of Arthritis, which forms the backbone (no pun intended) of our Balanced Lives programmes. Gentle exercise, including stretching (a very simple exercise which can be done at home) can be hugely beneficial to day-to-day health. Ask us for more details.

More Information

For details of our Balanced Lives events, you can go to our events page – Action for Elders Events

Exercise can be good for the mind and body; try our two-part exercises online via our YouTube channel. These quick and easy exercises can be done either seated or standing:

1. Relief from Arthritis Part 1 – The Upper Body
2. Relief from Arthritis Part 2 – Whole Body Exercise

NHS Recommendations

The NHS echoes our words on taking regular exercise and healthy lifestyle. Here are their recommendations and advice:

• taking regular exercise to keep your bones as strong as possible
• healthy eating – including foods rich in calcium and vitamin D
• taking a daily supplement containing 10 micrograms of vitamin D
• making lifestyle changes – such as giving up smoking and reducing your alcohol consumption