My father has been told he has osteoarthritis of the knees. Ever since he heard that, he can't do anything for himself anymore. He acts like he can hardly get around and doesn't go out anymore at all. How do we get him back to where he was before he heard this news?
How people view themselves has always been a key factor in how well they get along. This is true whether they have diabetes, arthritis, or a hangnail! The concept is called self-efficacy. It refers to a person's belief about his or her ability to complete a task or activity.
The key to getting your father back to his "normal" or status quo is to motivate him to want to try and to keep trying until he gets there. A recent study from the University of Kentucky suggests better patient education is the way to go. When a patient knows more about the disease, the better his or her self-efficacy. Patients need to know more realistically what they can expect with their condition.
Other studies have shown that balance is linked with function. An exercise and rehab program can help reduce pain, improve balance, and increase function. Likewise, improving these areas increases self-efficacy. A win-win situation!
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