Does arthritis change relationships ?
Arthritis brings in much more than only ache. It alters the reactions and lives of a family. There is sadness, aggravation and vulnerability. There are also time of irritation. What is most complicated to comprehend is the way relations are redefined as families refuse to handle with new situations. It is significant that each member of the family readjusts himself or herself to the altered reality, if this family is to be happy again.
The first is the spouse. There is no requirement to feel limited in your sex life because of arthritis. You have to remember that your spouse is the same who has given you so much pleasure and happiness. Now it is your turn to find ways to maintain the fire continuing. You can alter positions, and split moments of excitement after your spouse has taken pain killers. Most important is that the arthritis does not prevent you from sharing moments of intimacy.
If you are a youngster, you can discover it hard to deal your arthritis suffering parent as you are passing through physical as well as emotional changes. There may be periods of irritation, frustration, fear and even sorrow. But what is vital is to express these feelings with not being misunderstood. Instead of saying unwanted things in an unwanted manner, you can always lean on your school counselor or teacher to guide you. Being patient with your parent will help equally you and your parent to lead a happy life.
To do things work in a better way, each member of the family can take upon himself a task, or be assigned a job to be done. It may include the teenage son to collect the garbage and mow the lawn or the teenage daughter to clean and fold up clothes. In this case, the family should work as a team and work out a plan of household chores to give most care to the member.
It is only in difficult times that real love is ready to weather all storms. Short term plans like picnics and short trips alongside with back up plans may assist the disabled member to stay pleased. Being able to do changes in plans is the key. Slight changes in the family daily routines can guarantee active contribution and enjoyment of each and every member in the family.
Also, talking freely helps bring up issues that could otherwise become larger and more difficult to solve. One has to be an attentive person. When there is a two way talk, it is extremely important to recognize the thoughts of the individual at the other end.
These considerate steps will not lessen your parent’s ache but they will surely give him strength to cope with it. He will be ready to face everything without fear, if he is sure the family is by his side.
