Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in a joint. There are over 100 different types of arthritis, with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis being the most common. Arthritis affects people of all ages, genders and races. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 54 million adults have arthritis in the United States alone. This equals approximately 1 in 4 adults. The most common symptoms of arthritis are joint pain and stiffness, which typically worsen with age. Arthritis can limit a person’s normal range of motion and ability to do daily activities. While there is no cure for most types of arthritis, there are many treatment options available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
What are the benefits of having arthritis?
Although arthritis is often thought of as only causing pain and disability, there are some potential benefits that can come with having this condition:
Increased accessibility options
Having a diagnosis of arthritis may make someone eligible for accommodations that can make daily tasks easier. For example, individuals with arthritis may qualify for handicap parking placards or license plates which allow parking in designated handicap spots located closer to building entrances. People with arthritis can also benefit from using mobility aids like canes, walkers, or wheelchairs to help conserve their energy and reduce joint strain.
Disability benefits
If arthritis interferes with someone’s ability to work, they may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. These programs can provide monthly income and access to Medicare or Medicaid to help offset the costs of medications, therapies, assistive devices and other arthritis-related expenses. Having a definitive arthritis diagnosis and medical evidence of functional limitations aids in qualifying for disability benefits.
Improved symptom management
Gaining an arthritis diagnosis opens up access to an array of medications, therapies, assistive devices and pain management strategies. Working closely with a rheumatologist allows tailored treatment plans to be created that target the specific type of arthritis present and the areas of the body affected. Medications like NSAIDs, DMARDs, biologics, and steroids can effectively reduce inflammation and slow disease progression.
Peer support
Having arthritis enables connecting with others who truly understand the daily challenges of living with joint pain and reduced mobility. Joining arthritis support groups, online communities and advocacy organizations provides camaraderie, advice and resources from people with lived experience. These peer networks help individuals feel less alone in their struggles.
Improved diet and exercise
An arthritis diagnosis serves as a motivator for many people to make positive lifestyle changes. Eating an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3s, fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help ease arthritis symptoms. Regular low-impact exercise keeps joints flexible, reduces stiffness and pain, and combats disability. Walking, cycling, water exercise and stretching within one’s limits are great options.
Greater awareness of limitations
Having arthritis makes individuals more cognizant of their physical limitations and the activities that aggravate their joint pain and inflammation. This knowledge enables better pacing of tasks, improved body mechanics and avoidance of problematic motions. Listening to one’s body and not overexerting arthritic joints helps prevent increased damage and pain flares.
Development of adaptations and skills
Dealing daily with arthritis often spurs creative problem-solving as people devise adaptations for tasks made difficult by their symptoms. Using labor-saving devices, requesting help when needed, changing positions frequently, spreading out activities over multiple days and trying alternate techniques are just some of the useful skills developed. Arthritis can also nurture greater patience, resilience, self-care and determination.
What types of benefits are available?
There are various governmental, organizational and institutional benefits that can aid those living with arthritis:
Social Security Disability benefits
As mentioned, the Social Security Administration has two programs that provide disability benefits – Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
SSDI pays monthly benefits to individuals with disabilities who previously worked and paid Social Security taxes. The amount paid depends on the lifetime average of taxable earnings. Medicare benefits are also available 24 months after qualifying for SSDI.
SSI pays monthly benefits to adults and children with disabilities who have limited income and resources. SSI also provides Medicaid benefits in most states. Eligibility requires meeting Social Security’s definition of disability and falling below income and asset limits.
Medicare
Medicare is the federal health insurance program primarily for people 65 and older, but younger people with disabilities may qualify after receiving SSDI benefits for 24 months. Medicare helps pay for doctor visits, hospitalizations, medications, therapy and other medical services. Deductibles, copays and coinsurance apply.
Medicaid
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage for some people with disabilities and limited resources/income. Benefits vary by state but often include doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, therapy and assistive devices. Some states have “medically needy” options that allow higher income individuals with high medical costs to qualify.
Pharmaceutical assistance
Many pharmaceutical companies offer prescription assistance programs providing discounts or free brand-name medications to people who meet income requirements and lack drug coverage. Local health clinics and non-profits may also help patients in need access affordable medications.
Arthritis Foundation programs
The Arthritis Foundation has several programs aimed at improving quality of life for those with arthritis:
– Resource Finder – helps locate free or low-cost local programs and services
– Juvenile Arthritis Family and Caregiver Support – provides information, online forums and camps
– Let’s Get a Grip on Arthritis – offers tools for arthritis management and health advocacy
– Walk With Ease – a self-directed exercise program to reduce arthritis pain
– 24/7 Nurse Help Line – arthritis nurses provide guidance managing symptoms
Accessibility and accommodations
The Americans with Disabilities Act protects against discrimination and mandates reasonable accommodations to enable access and function for people with arthritis and disabilities. Workplaces, schools, housing, public venues and modes of transportation must provide requested accommodations, though undue hardship can be claimed in some cases.
Financial assistance programs
Some nonprofit groups like the HealthWell Foundation, Good Days, and the Assistance Fund provide financial assistance with prescription drug copays, health insurance premiums and other medical expenses to eligible individuals with chronic conditions.
Tax deductions
People with high unreimbursed medical expenses like those associated with arthritis may be eligible to claim these costs as an itemized deduction on their federal income tax return. Eligible expenses must exceed 7.5% of adjusted gross income.
What benefits are most helpful for arthritis patients?
There are a range of beneficial programs, services and aids that can greatly improve daily function, pain levels and mood for arthritis patients. Here are some of the most helpful:
Medications to treat pain and inflammation
Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologics, steroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) prescribed by rheumatologists are often one of the most effective elements of arthritis treatment.
Physical and occupational therapy
Working with physical and occupational therapists can teach safe joint protection techniques, posture corrections, home exercise programs, relaxation practices and energy conservation tips. Assistive devices like splints, jar openers, and raised toilet seats may also be recommended.
Supportive shoes and braces
Properly fitted footwear with good shock absorption and custom orthotics can reduce knee, hip and back pain for arthritis patients by improving gait mechanics. Knee braces stabilize joints and unload pressure on arthritic areas. Hand and finger splints prevent painful deformities.
Mobility equipment
Canes, walkers, wheelchairs or scooters allow arthritis patients to conserve energy, maintain independence and avoid falls. Built up handles and seats distribute pressure away from affected joints.
Assistive devices for daily tasks
Reachers, dressing aids, bathtub grab bars, electric jar openers, swivel cushions and other specialized items make self-care, household chores and cooking safer and easier for those with arthritis.
Home modifications
Installing ramps, widening doorways, adding handrails and modifying kitchens and bathrooms in ways like lowering countertops and adding walk-in showers help maximize functionality for those with arthritis at home.
Support groups
Connecting with others who have arthritis provides emotional support plus an exchange of tips and resources between individuals facing similar challenges. This solidarity can aid mental health.
Counseling services
Mental health therapy helps some individuals with arthritis better manage pain, reduce stress, and cope with changes in functional ability or life plans due to their condition. Counseling may utilize approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness and more.
Pool therapy and exercise programs
The buoyancy and warmth of water makes exercise easier on arthritic joints than land-based activity. Programs like the Arthritis Foundation’s Walk With Ease promote safe physical activity and social support.
Service animals
For those severely impaired by arthritis, trained service dogs can provide mobility assistance, pick up dropped items, open/close doors and draw attention to medical emergencies. Their companionship also boosts morale.
What criteria must be met to qualify for benefits?
The specific criteria to qualify for arthritis-related benefits varies depending on the program, but some general requirements include:
Having a formal arthritis diagnosis
Nearly all programs and services require a definitive diagnosis of a type of arthritis from a rheumatologist or other physician. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, gout and other arthritic conditions may qualify.
Disability determination
To receive Social Security disability benefits, applicants must have sufficient documented medical evidence of functional limitations that prevent working and earning above program thresholds. Specific arthritis disability criteria apply.
Financial need assessment
Some types of assistance such as Medicaid, disability income, pharmaceutical programs and nonprofit grants require meeting low income and limited asset thresholds to demonstrate financial need and qualify.
Citizenship/residency status
Most governmental programs require recipients to be U.S. citizens or maintain acceptable legal resident status. Privately funded services and nonprofits may also request proof of residency.
previous condition analysis
Insurers may analyze a patient’s full medical history and pre-existing conditions like prior joint damage when determining eligibility for health or disability benefits. A lack of prior symptoms and diagnoses may aid approval.
Smoking status
Since smoking worsens arthritis inflammation and degeneration, insurers often deny or limit coverage for smokers, particularly for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis known to be aggravated by smoking. Maintaining tobacco abstinence helps.
Condition severity
Factors like high pain levels, significant loss of range of motion, frequent flares, use of multiple medications and arthritis impact on activities of daily living provide objective evidence of disability to qualify for benefits.
Physician documentation
Doctors must complete physical exam and diagnostic findings reports, assessments of functional limitations and prescription forms to verify applicants meet criteria for that benefit. Ongoing physician records ensure continued eligibility.
| Benefit Program | Key Eligibility Requirements |
|---|---|
| Social Security Disability Insurance | Work credits from FICA taxes paid, total disability, U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen |
| Supplemental Security Income | Low income/assets, total disability, U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen |
| Medicare | 65 or older, under 65 receiving Social Security Disability, U.S. citizen or permanent resident |
| Medicaid | Low income, state residency rules met, U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen |
| Pharmaceutical Assistance | Low income, uninsured/underinsured, U.S. resident |
| Financial Assistance | Income limits, high medical costs, U.S. resident |
What types of accommodations are available for arthritis patients?
Some examples of accommodations that may be provided for people with arthritis include:
At work:
– Flexible scheduling or telework options to allow for medical appointments
– More frequent breaks to rest painful joints
– Ergonomic office setup with wrist rests, headset, proper chair, etc.
– Modified duties or reduced hours
– Time off for flare-ups
– Physical accessibility for workplace areas
At school:
– Note-taking assistance
– Permission to use laptop for note-taking
– Extra time on tests
– Elevator access passes
– Modified desks and chairs
– Exemption from gym/physical activities
Housing:
– Assigned disability parking spot
– Permission to have assistance animal
– Installation of grab bars, ramps, chair lifts
– Door knob grips and lever handles
– Raised electrical outlets/light switches
– Kitchen/bathroom modifications
Transportation:
– Priority seating on public transit
– Paratransit services
– Disability placards for parking
– Driver’s license restrictions added
– Hand controls installed in vehicle
Public spaces:
– Accessible routes of travel
– Ramps, automatic doors, elevators
– Seating in waiting areas
– Writing aids like clipboards
– Assistive listening devices
– Sign language interpreters
Conclusion
Arthritis can significantly impact daily function and quality of life. However, there are many governmental, community and organizational resources and benefits available to aid those living with arthritis. Taking advantage of these programs and services can help individuals manage symptoms, afford treatments, maintain independence and remain active community members to the greatest extent possible. From social security disability income, to workplace accommodations, to transportation access, support is out there for those who seek it. Working closely with healthcare providers and social workers helps ensure people with arthritis are connected to all the resources that can provide comfort, care and community during the challenges of living with this condition. While arthritis may not yet have a cure, patients need not tackle its burdens alone thanks to the range of benefits and advocates prepared to offer assistance.