Some Concerns About Arthritis Are More Age Related
Let's dispel the most persistent misconception about arthritis, once and for all. Arthritis is not just an old person's disease. It affects and afflicts young people too.
Though many aspects of daily living and coping with arthritis are common to both old and young people who have the disease, certain concerns are more age-related.
Middle-Aged People With Arthritis
A middle-age person who suffers with arthritis is typically focused on controlling the pain of arthritis and preserving joint function so they can:
- continue to work
- maintain a household
- concentrate on their role within the family unit
Older People With Arthritis
Elderly people with arthritis likely live alone or with their spouse, having children who left the nest long ago. Their physical limitations and increasing need for assistance can be their greatest worry.
Younger People With Arthritis
Young adults with arthritis, who have yet to carve out their future, face a blockade of challenges. The path to college, career, and marriage - a daunting trio of events even without factoring in a chronic illness - is made even more difficult.
Living With Arthritis
Life with chronic arthritis is physically and emotionally draining. Trying to live a normal life rapidly consumes any residual energy.
- Is there any energy left to expend on socializing, dating, and relationships?
- How does a young man or woman dealing with chronic pain 24/7, and struggling to maintain a work or school schedule, make the necessary effort to create new friendships?
It really is "effort" which is required. Young adults living with chronic arthritis must strive to be part of social situations, otherwise they allow the disease to become isolating. Even so, chronic disease can complicate new friendships and potential romantic relationships.
- Should you try to make new friends aware of how arthritis impacts your life on a daily basis?
- Is it possible to make them understand?
When Is The Right Time To Tell Others?
When to tell a new friend or date about your arthritic condition is an important consideration.
- Should honesty and being forthright lead you into the discussion during your initial meeting?
- Would it be better to wait?
- What are you waiting for?
There are really two ways of viewing this dilemma.
Should You Tell Immediately?
Pro: Honesty. Openness. Gain understanding early on. Eliminate burden of finding the right time later.
Con: Might scare person away.
Should You Tell Later?
Pro: Person gets to know you first and realizes you are more than your disease.
Con: By withholding information it is implied that the problem is greater than it is.
Opinions Vary
There is no "right answer" to the questions posed. Opinions vary. Not everyone is comfortable with the same approach. But consider this - by telling about your disease early on, you draw the person into your world immediately. This inclusion gives them the chance to learn quickly about arthritis and gain awareness. Even if a budding romantic relationship is squelched, honesty is a strong foundation for a lifelong friendship.
