It’s staggering that around 10 million people in the UK have arthritis – that’s one in five of the adult population. Yet it’s safe to say that, unless we know someone with the condition, we tend not to think about it. Yet, it could affect any of us at any time, especially as we get older.
As arthritis affects so many of our customers, it’s important that we keep abreast of the latest studies and campaigns in order to aid our product development. Many will not know that there are around 200 types of arthritis – some are hereditary, some result from a sports injury and others are simply a result of growing older.
According to statistics, around 70% of all 70-year-olds have some form of arthritis, with nearly 72% of these fulfilling the legal definition of being disabled. Rheumatoid arthritis, which can strike at any age, affects around 680,000 people and around three times as many women as men. For some it starts gradually whereas for others it progresses very rapidly, but for all it is potentially a disabling lifelong condition.
Therefore, it’s important that people at risk, or their carers, do as much as they can to make life easier and reduce the likelihood of a fall, which can be far more likely for those with arthritis. By removing unnecessary hazards in the home, installing appropriate equipment, taking exercise and eating a healthy diet, people can take a big step towards helping themselves.
One area in the home that is particularly important is the bathroom where many accidents happen. Installing a walk-in bath or easy access shower can make such a difference to anyone with arthritis by significantly reducing the likelihood of a fall, so gives the user the increased confidence to bathe safely by themselves. There are specific walk-in baths that can also help arthritis suffers by providing therapeutic benefits, particularly those with a hydrovescent therapy option as it encourages blood circulation and decreases inflammation – easing the pain associated with the condition. Bathing safely and comfortably means so much to people and having the right bath or shower really does make a difference. In fact, the Arthritis Foundation has recommended selected companies and their walk-in baths, which really endorses the benefits they bring.
Charities and events such as World Arthritis Day today (Friday 12th October) are so important in raising awareness of arthritis and providing practical support and help to many suffers. That’s why we are supporting the efforts of World Arthritis Day by donating 10% of sales on the day to charities that support arthritis research and sufferers.
Getting involved in this awareness day can make such a difference and help transform the life of an arthritis sufferer. Are you doing anything to mark and support the day?