Effects of rheumatoid arthritis on household chores and leisure-time activities

Abstract

The aim of the study was to determine household chores and leisure-time activities most affected by rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to evaluate the perceived impact on performing these activities. Also, our aim was to estimate the required and received assistance for household chores. In an interview study via telephone, 124 patients with moderate-to-severe RA, visiting a tertiary-level dermatological clinic, listed spontaneously without predefined list the household chores and leisure-time activities that they considered were particularly affected by the RA. Ability to perform household chores and leisure-time activities were asked. The need for outside assistance with household chores and help received were also determined. Rheumatoid arthritis affected wide range of everyday household activities, with tasks related to cleaning of the house mentioned most often. Eleven of the categories out of 16 were similar to those included in the HAQ index. The majority of the patients (84.6 %) reported disadvantage in performing household chores because of RA. More than half of the patients (55.7 %) received assistance with household chores, women significantly more often than men (69.0 vs. 26.3 %, p < 0.01). Most of the household chores mentioned were physically demanding. Leisure-time activities listed by respondents as affected by RA were mostly related to sport. The majority of patients (77.2 %) had either reduced or completely given up at least one leisure-time activity. When estimating the total burden of the disease, the impact on both household chores and leisure-time activities should be taken into account.

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“…A study in USA reported that the rate of work disability was more than 25%, after 10 years with RA . Higher rates were reported in European countries . In a Finnish study, it was reported that most female RA patients (≅84%) had difficulty performing household activities and more than 50% required assistance .…”

“…29 Higher rates were reported in European countries. 27 In a Finnish study, it was reported that most female RA patients (≅84%) had difficulty performing household activities and more than 50% required assistance. 28 Another study reported that other family members may spend up to 7 hours in performing household activities if the female member of the family such as mother or wife has RA.…”

“…Altogether, over 75% of patients were working. It is pertinent to mention that RA could result in work disability and early retirement . It may significantly reduce the ability to perform household chores and impact household work performance of women .…”

“…It may significantly reduce the ability to perform household chores and impact household work performance of women . Barrett and colleagues had documented work‐related disability and found that the disease may hamper productivity and may force individuals to leave work early . A study in USA reported that the rate of work disability was more than 25%, after 10 years with RA .…”

“…It is pertinent to mention that RA could result in work disability and early retirement. 27 It may significantly reduce the ability to perform household chores and impact household work performance of women. 26 Barrett and colleagues had documented work-related disability and found that the disease may hamper productivity and may force individuals to leave work early.…”