World Arthritis Day

A Guide on World Arthritis Day

Introduction

World Arthritis Day, celebrated annually on the 12th of October, is a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about arthritis and supporting individuals living with the condition. This day serves as a platform to educate, advocate, and promote understanding of the challenges faced by people with arthritis.

Understanding Arthritis

Arthritis is a broad term encompassing a group of conditions characterised by inflammation of the joints. There are many different types of arthritis, each with its own unique symptoms and causes. Some of the most common types include:

• Osteoarthritis: By far the most common form of Arthritis, Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when cartilage breaks down.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation of the joints.
• Gout: A type of arthritis caused by uric acid crystals forming in the joints.
• Psoriatic Arthritis: A condition that affects people with psoriasis, a skin condition.
• Juvenile Arthritis: A form of arthritis that affects children.

The symptoms of arthritis can vary widely depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common symptoms may include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and limited range of motion. In some cases, Arthritis can also lead to fatigue, fever, and weight loss.

The Importance of World Arthritis Day

World Arthritis Day plays a crucial role in raising awareness about arthritis and promoting support for individuals living with the condition. By highlighting the challenges faced by people with arthritis, WAD helps to break down stigma, encourage research, and advocate for better access to treatment and support services.

Our Partner: Arthritis Action

Arthritis Action has a long-standing tradition of providing practical help to people with arthritis, focusing on improving their quality of life through self-management. Their approach factors in the best available evidence and aims to address both the physical and mental health impacts of living with arthritis.

Key elements of their self-management approach include:

• Holistic Support: Arthritis Action recognizes that arthritis affects both the body and mind. Their approach addresses both physical and mental health aspects, providing a comprehensive solution.
• Personalized Care: They understand that one size does not fit all when it comes to arthritis. They offer a range of services to help individuals find what works best for them, tailoring their support to individual needs.
• Evidence-Based Practices: Their approach is based on the latest research and evidence, ensuring that they provide effective and up-to-date guidance.
• Community and Support: Arthritis Action fosters a supportive community where individuals can connect with others facing similar challenges, share experiences, and learn from each other.
• Empowerment: Their goal is to empower individuals with arthritis to take control of their condition, manage pain, and live a fulfilling life.

Specific services and resources offered by Arthritis Action include:

• Mental health resources: Support for managing the emotional aspects of living with arthritis.
• Pain management techniques: Strategies for coping with pain and improving overall comfort.
• Online Groups and self-management events: Opportunities for connection, support, and learning.
• Webinars, podcasts, videos, and fact sheets: Informative resources on various aspects of arthritis.

In addition, Arthritis Action members can receive:

• Healthy eating and nutritional consultations: Guidance on dietary choices to support arthritis management.
• Clinical appointments: Access to osteopaths and physiotherapists for professional advice and treatment.
• Online exercise classes, advice, and resources: Tailored exercise programs to improve strength, flexibility, and overall well-being.
• Personalized pathway for goal setting and self-management support: Guidance on setting achievable goals and developing self-management strategies.

By providing a comprehensive and personalized approach to self-management, Arthritis Action aims to help individuals with arthritis live more active and fulfilling lives.

For more information on the Charity and what they do, go to https://www.arthritisaction.org.uk/

Financial Protection with Arthritis

Individuals with Arthritis may face unique challenges when trying to obtain Life Insurance, Critical Illness Cover and Income Protection policies. These challenges can include:

• Underwriting Restrictions: Insurance companies may impose stricter underwriting guidelines for individuals with certain types of Arthritis, leading to higher premiums or policies being declined.
• Limited Cover Options: Some insurers may offer limited coverage options or exclude certain benefits for individuals with Arthritis.

How We Can Help

Your Life Protected has been helping clients with pre-existing medical conditions (including Arthritis) secure protection policies (Life Insurance, Critical Illness Cover & Income Protection) for over a decade. We have a thorough understanding of underwriting rules and are best placed to identify the best products for your needs.

If you have Arthritis and would like to explore your options, submit your details, or give us a call today.