The Negotiation and Use of Personal Assistance by Women with Chronic Arthritis

The aim of this study was to gain a greater understanding of the impact of chronic arthritis on the functional ability of women, the strategies that they used to maintain their function and the integration of these strategies into their lifestyles. A qualitative approach was adopted, using semi-structured interviews, personal diaries and focus groups. Twelve women with chronic arthritis participated over a period of 2 years. All the interviews and focus group discussions were transcribed and coded. The data analysis involved the development of a thematic framework to identify recurring themes and their relationships.

The negotiation and use of personal assistance emerged as an important strategy used by the women. It was highlighted as a complex strategy owing to the number of factors influencing its use, the personal connotations of being a recipient of assistance and the need to negotiate levels of assistance with other family members. Insights into the women's use of assistance have the potential to inform the way in which this strategy is approached in educational programmes and also highlight the need to address how people with chronic arthritis communicate their need for assistance and negotiate help within the family.