Investigation of Living Conditions of Patients with Rheumatoid Diseas

The actual living conditions of patients with rheumatoid disorders in Omura city and Tohi District was investigated in Jan. 1996. From the view point of primary health care, problems and needs during their stay at home were studied. A questionnaire was used which was directly checked by the physical nurse in the city and town.The questionnaire was answered in 84 cases (47.2%). Many of the patients were elderly aged over 60yrs (52.4%) with more than 50% having the disorder for more than ao years. Handicaps over the 3rd grade were found in 82.1% and classes over the III were in 31.0%. In ADL selfcare evaluation 54 cases were in level J (64.3%) and 12 cases were below B (14.3%). 23.8% used self-help aids, 13.1% used apparatus and 21.4% had home reform. Medical treatment had been performed in 81 cases (96.4%). The rheumatoid patient attended a hospital in 56.8% and clinic in 43.2%. Medical doctors were orthopaedic specialists hospital in 87.0% and clinics in 57.1%. 25 cases (29.8%) had received surgery and 43 cases had rehabilitation (51.2%).It is important to cooperate with the medical, health and welfare services and accept the various needs of rheumatoid patients in order for the QOL of rheumatoid will be improved.