Open AccessComputer‐based patient education for older persons with osteoarthritis
Author(s) -
Rippey Robert M.,
Bill Dee,
Abeles Micha,
Day John,
Downing Deborah S.,
Pfeiffer Carol A.,
Thal Sara E.,
Wetstone Scott L.
Publication year - 1987
Publication title -
arthritis & rheumatism
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1529-0131
pISSN - 0004-3591
DOI - 10.1002/art.1780300814
Subject(s) - osteoarthritis , physical therapy , gerontology , medicine , physical medicine and rehabilitation , psychology , alternative medicine , pathology
A program of 8 lessons on various aspects of osteoarthritis (OA), its treatment, and patient self‐care was prepared on an Apple IIc computer. The courses were then field‐tested and evaluated by 72 older (age range 52–88) OA patients in community centers for senior citizens. Statistical analysis of the findings showed significant increases in knowledge and significant self‐reported, beneficial behavior changes, including increased exercise, use of heat, and rest. Our findings demonstrate that older persons can use the computer to learn to cope with OA when a thoughtfully planned program is made available in a community setting.