Disease-related social and family life: people coping with rheumatoid arthritis in Estonia

摘要

Objective: The aim of the article is to investigate the most severe problems aggravating the quality of life of people with rheumatism and to outline the role of support and assistance people with rheumatism receive from their family members/acquaintances in order to cope with their daily life. Methods: The article is based on the data and findings of the national sociological survey 'Chronic Rheumatic Patients 2006' carried out by the Rheumatic Association of Tallinn in the years 2005-2006 with the support from the Ministry of Social Affairs of Estonia. Data were collected via a questionnaire from 808 respondents. Results: The respondents indicated their state of health and shortage of money as their most severe problems, followed by dysfunctional family relations, poor living conditions, loneliness, etc. The problems are more severe for the respondents who live alone and have been coping with illness for over 10 years. The assistance received from relatives/acquaintances to cope with daily life is more varied and thorough than that received from children. Assistance is mostly received occasionally. On average, every tenth respondent does not have anyone to turn to for assistance. Conclusion: Severe problems and stress symptoms display a cumulative effect-the occurrence of one aspect often triggers others. To break this vicious circle, people with rheumatism need assistance and support from the state as well as from their immediate environment.