A descriptive study to assess the levels of knowledge regarding rheumatic arthritis among old agepeople in M.N. Palayam

Abstract

Background of the study: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that predominantly affects the elderly population, leading to pain, joint deformity, and reduced quality of life. Early detection and appropriate management are crucial, and public awareness plays a vital role in achieving this. Aims and objectives: Assess the levels of knowledge regarding Rheumatic Arthritis among old age people. Methodology: The- research design is descriptive study were conducted at M.N. Palayam 30 Old Age People who satisfied the inclusion the criteria were selected as sample using probability technique. Results: The findings of the study revealed that most elderly people (46.7%) had inadequate knowledge about rheumatoid arthritis and only 20% had adequate knowledge showing a gap in awareness that may require educational intervention. Conclusion: The present study assessed the level of knowledge regarding Rheumatoid arthritis among Old Age people at M.N. Palayam. Among the demographic variables studied, education level, monthly income and source of information showed a significant association with knowledge about rheumatoid arthritis. This indicates that educational background plays a crucial role in health awareness. Other variables like age, gender, and marital status did not show statistically significant associations.