Vocational rehabilitation for persons with rheumatoid arthritis

Issue title: Vocational Rehabilitation and Chronic Illness

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Allaire, Saralynn H.^;

Affiliations: Boston University, School of Medicine, A203, 715 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118, USA

Note: [] Tel.: + 1 617 6385184; Fax: + 1 617 6385239; E-mail: [email protected].

Abstract: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic disorder which primarily affects the joints. Although advances in its health treatment are being made, the disorder continues to be disabling. Rates of disease-related work loss are high, but few persons receive VR services. Since decline in function is gradual, the opportunity to prevent work disability exists. Useful vocational rehabilitation strategies are those that help individuals: (a) better manage disease symptoms and reduce overall energy demand; (b) retain their current jobs through obtaining reasonable accommodations; (c) identify jobs suited to current or future limitations and the training needed to obtain them; and Cd) enhance their ability to advocate for their own needs.

Keywords: Rheumatoid arthritis, Employment issues, Vocational rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/JVR-1998-10308

Journal: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 253-260, 1998