Principles for nursing practice : osteoarthritis and osteoporosis

![CDATA[The majority of the population in Australia and New Zealand anticipate a lifetime of independence and good health that allows them to maintain a self-directed lifestyle. However, living a healthy and productive life does not necessarily protect the individual from varying levels of disability later in life due to the natural changes of ageing, life's physical stressors and individual genetic make-up. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis and back pain affect more than 6.1 mill ion. Australians, mostly among people aged 65 years and over (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) 2014 ). As populations age, more people are likely to experience disability as a result of these conditions. Even if the disability does not interfere with daily function and mobility, in combination with other changes of ageing and age-related diseases, the effects of these conditions and their management can prove to be challenging for the person, their family and health providers, and result in increased levels of disability. In this chapter there will be a discussion of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis. There will be a focus on the effects of osteoarthritis and osteoporosis on two older people and their families through the use of case studies. The case studies will assist you to understand how nursing practices can promote health and wellbeing for persons experiencing disability and challenge as a result of these conditions.]]