L Matheson1, D Harcourt, S Hewlett. 1. Centre for Appearance Research, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol, BS16 1 QY, UK. lauren.matheson@live.uwe.ac.uk
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: Research suggests that rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can have a negative psychosocial impact on partners, as well as patients. However, until now there has been very little in-depth qualitative research in this area. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of partners of people with RA. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a heterogeneous sample of eight partners of people with RA (six men, two women, age range 48-73 years). Transcripts were analysed thematically. RESULTS: Five overarching themes emerged: psychological burden in partners was substantial, as they experienced frustration and distress at watching their partner suffer and tried to protect their spouse from emotional and physical distress. 'It's a restricted life': partners reported having to cut back on previously enjoyable shared activities and had difficulty making future plans. Adjusting lives: partners had to make considerable adjustments to many aspects of their lives, and had adopted practical and psychological ways to cope. 'It's a joint approach': many partners discussed adopting a joint approach to managing the RA. Met and unmet support needs varied considerably, and many partners felt that a joint approach to treatment taken by health professionals is needed, which involves and recognizes their role. CONCLUSIONS: Partners of people with RA are vital to the patients' disease management, but the data show that many carry a substantial psychosocial burden. Healthcare professionals should be aware of this, so that couples coping with RA can be better supported. Copyright (c) 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
OBJECTIVES: Research suggests that rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can have a negative psychosocial impact on partners, as well as patients. However, until now there has been very little in-depth qualitative research in this area. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of partners of people with RA. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a heterogeneous sample of eight partners of people with RA (six men, two women, age range 48-73 years). Transcripts were analysed thematically. RESULTS: Five overarching themes emerged: psychological burden in partners was substantial, as they experienced frustration and distress at watching their partner suffer and tried to protect their spouse from emotional and physical distress. 'It's a restricted life': partners reported having to cut back on previously enjoyable shared activities and had difficulty making future plans. Adjusting lives: partners had to make considerable adjustments to many aspects of their lives, and had adopted practical and psychological ways to cope. 'It's a joint approach': many partners discussed adopting a joint approach to managing the RA. Met and unmet support needs varied considerably, and many partners felt that a joint approach to treatment taken by health professionals is needed, which involves and recognizes their role. CONCLUSIONS: Partners of people with RA are vital to the patients' disease management, but the data show that many carry a substantial psychosocial burden. Healthcare professionals should be aware of this, so that couples coping with RA can be better supported. Copyright (c) 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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