Arthritis: A Condition Beyond Age

Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in Northern Ireland, with more than 900,000 confirmed cases in the UK. Despite it’s prevalence, many individuals continue to live fulfilling lives with the right support. Connected Health provides the care and practical assistance needed to help you maintain control over your life and continue doing the things you love without having to move out of your home.

Though often considered an affliction of the elderly, arthritis does not discriminate- it affects individuals of all ages, including children and adolescents. It is not a single disease but a broad term encompassing multiple painful conditions that impact the quality of life for those affected and their loved ones.

Connected Health stands at the forefront of arthritis care, easing the burden for individuals and families throughout the UK. We are committed to empowering those affected, helping them to navigate the daily challenges posed by arthritis.

Arthritis is characterised by joint inflammation, leading to swelling, pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Symptoms can vary from mild discomfort to severe disability. While arthritis is most common among adults, it can affect individuals of all ages.

How Does it Manifest?

The condition can arise from various causes, including wear and tear, infections, autoimmune disorders, and the accumulation of uric acid crystals. The most common types of arthritis include:

Osteoarthritis (OA)

• Cause: Cartilage breakdown in joints.
• Effects: Pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, primarily affecting hands, knees, hips, and spine.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

• Cause: Autoimmune disorder attacking the synovial membrane lining the joint.
• Effects: Inflammation, swelling, pain, and potential joint deformity over time.

Psoriatic Arthritis

• Cause: Associated with psoriasis, an autoimmune skin condition.
• Effects: Joint pain and stiffness, skin rashes, and nail changes.

Gout

• Cause: Uric acid crystal buildup in the joints.
• Effects: Severe pain, redness, and swelling, often affecting the big toe.

Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, SLE)

• Cause: Autoimmune disorder affecting skin, joints, and organs.
• Effects: Joint pain and swelling, fatigue, rashes, and organ damage.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

• Cause: Chronic inflammation of the spine and sacroiliac joints.
• Effects: Pain and stiffness in the spine and back, reduced flexibility, and potential fusion of the spine.

Life With Arthritis

Living with arthritis can be challenging, not just physically but also emotionally. The persistent pain, the swelling, and the stiffness can erode one’s quality of life, making every movement a reminder of the limitations imposed by the condition.

This is where comprehensive arthritis private home care becomes a life-changing decision. It’s about managing symptoms and nurturing a supportive environment that fosters independence and well-being.

Why Homecare is Beneficial for Arthritis Sufferers?

Private homecare offers many benefits for individuals dealing with arthritis, emphasising comfort, personalised care, and the maintenance of independence within the familiar surroundings of one’s own home. Here are the core advantages:

• Tailored Care in Comfort | Homecare services fit the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that people with arthritis receive specific support in the comfort and privacy of their homes.
• Maintaining Independence | By receiving care at home, individuals can maintain their daily routines and lifestyles, fostering autonomy and control over their lives.
• Emotional Well-being | Familiarity can reduce stress and anxiety, positively contributing to the overall emotional and mental well-being of people with arthritis.
• Safety and Convenience | Homecare eliminates regular travel to hospitals or clinics, reducing the strain and ensuring that professional support is readily available.
• Family Involvement and Support | Homecare allows family members to be closely involved in the care process, ensuring a support system and adjusting the care plan as needed.

Why Choose Connected Health as a Partner in Arthritis Care?

Connected Health UK isn’t just offering services; we’re your helping companion in effectively managing arthritis. We recognise the complex challenges of alleviating their effect by tailored, medically-backed home care solutions.

• Morning Assistance | We understand mornings can be challenging. Our Morning Call Service eases the start of the day, helping your family members rise and shine easily.
• Household Upkeep | Managing a home shouldn’t be your loved one’s concern. We take the load off by handling cleaning, laundry, and other chores, ensuring they live in a space that’s not just tidy but comforting and stress-free.
• Shopping & Medication Support | We simplify the complexities of medication routines and grocery shopping, ensuring your loved one’s pantry is stocked and their medication is timely and accurately managed.
• Encouraging Active Engagement | Life’s passions shouldn’t fade away. We actively encourage your family members to engage in their favourite activities and hobbies, fueling their spirits and keeping their bodies engaged.
• Mobility and Exercise Aid | Mobility is crucial in arthritis care. Our exercise routines and mobility support are designed to keep your loved one moving smoothly, fostering joint health and flexibility.
• Dietary and Nutritional Guidance | Proper diet is influential in arthritis management. Our nutritional support, including meal prep and cooking, ensures your family member’s diet aids in relieving inflammation and pain.

At Connected Health UK, we’re dedicated to more than just care; we ensure your loved one’s life is full, active, and enriched despite arthritis. Let us join you and your family on this journey, offering the support, care, and companionship your loved one deserves.

Our Homecarers and Connected Academy Training

At Connected Health UK, we deeply understand that the bond between a carer and a patient is pivotal. That’s why we place immense importance on matching the suitable home carer with your loved one, ensuring a harmonious relationship for the ultimate care experience.

• Personalised Carer-Patient Matching | We know every individual is unique. Our thoughtful approach to matching ensures that your family member’s carer is not just a helper but a companion who truly resonates with their personality, preferences, and specific care needs.
• Excellence through Education | Our carers are the backbone of our service. They are trained at the Connected Academy, an OCN-accredited training Centre. They undergo training programmes in progressive home care, care home, nursing, elderly health, and well-being.

Arthritis can make daily tasks very difficult for some, and assisted living may be the perfect option. Connected Health is there to support you in continuing to live independently by offering support services which include;

• A morning call service to help with getting up and ready for the day.
• Maintaining a good handle on housework such as cleaning and laundry.
• Help with shopping or doing the shopping for you.
• Making sure you have the right medicines at the right intervals to reduce swelling or pain.
• Help with participating in activities that you love.
• Support to help keep you mobile with gentle exercise.
• Assistance with the cooking of meals and food preparation.

Although there is no permanent cure for arthritis, improvements in lifestyle and treatment can help reduce pain and improve function to prevent future damage. Connected Health provides the services you need to manage your condition at home and avoid moving to an assisted living facility. We create a homecare plan that focuses on what matters most to you. We provide high-quality support and private home care tailored to your individual needs so you can live the best life possible.