Understanding the Predictors of Quality of Life among People with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Pages: 154-158
Anjo George and M. Vinothkumar (Department of Psychology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu)

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory disease whose causes are still unknown. RA can be a significant hardship for those who suffer from it and their families. People with RA are afraid of long-term pain, stiffness, and exhaustion from a psychological standpoint. They are concerned about the loss of function, employment impairment, and the disease’s potential socioeconomic consequences. Long-term medication can be a potential threat and harm the individual. Most people experience physical and psychosocial issues more than the general population. While compared to a healthy population, patients with RA report lower quality of life in various dimensions which consists of the physical state of health, one’s attitude and surroundings, and degree of freedom. The onset of rheumatic diseases significantly affects the quality of life, resulting in a reduction in life satisfaction and well-being. Quality of life constitutes physical, psychological, and social well-being and the ability to participate in daily activities. The goal of this study is to find out what factors influence the quality of life in rheumatoid arthritis patients. A sample of 90 adults diagnosed with RA aged between 40-55 years is chosen from the locality of Kerala. The personal data sheet and standardized questionnaires were used to measure the quality of life, meaning in life, hope, and mindfulness. The study results indicated that hope, meaning in life and mindfulness positively predicted quality of life. The results indicated the interplay of psychological factors of individuals with rheumatoid arthritis which may contribute to designing psychological interventions emphasizing the role of hope, meaning in life, and mindfulness.