Staying Social and Active with Rheumatoid Arthritis - Tips and Ideas

Staying Social with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Living with rheumatoid arthritis can make it challenging to maintain an active social life. The symptoms of RA, like joint pain, stiffness, and fatigue, can make it difficult to participate in some social activities. However, having a strong support system and staying connected with friends and family is important for overall health and wellbeing.

The good news is there are many ways to stay social while living with RA. With some creativity and planning, you can find rheumatoid arthritis-friendly activities that allow you to spend time with loved ones without overdoing it physically.

Tips for Staying Social with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Here are some tips to help you maintain social connections while coping with RA:

• Be open about your limitations and needs. Let friends know when you may need to rest, take medication, or modify activities.
• Schedule activities when your symptoms are milder, such as in the morning after taking medication.
• Plan smaller gatherings rather than big events which can be overstimulating.
• Build in rest periods between activities to conserve your energy.
• Suggest activities like going to a movie or show where you can sit comfortably.
• Try virtual get-togethers through video chat when you're not up for leaving home.
• Use mobility aids like a cane or walker to help you get around more easily.
• Invite friends over for a meal or activity at your home when you're having a flare-up.
• Find support groups, either locally or online, to connect with others who understand RA.

Rheumatoid Arthritis-Friendly Social Activities

The key is choosing social activities that work with your RA symptoms and limitations. Here are some rheumatoid arthritis-friendly ideas to try:

Low Key Hangouts

• Watching movies or TV shows together at home
• Board game nights or card games
• Working on crafts or hobbies together like puzzles, knitting, scrapbooking
• Backyard barbecues or picnics where you can sit and relax
• Coffee dates or brunches at quiet cafes

Cultural Activities

• Visiting museums or art galleries where you can take breaks
• Going to the theater for a play or musical
• Attending book readings or author events at local bookstores
• Taking a guided tour at interesting sites around your city

Nature Activities

• Going on short, easy hikes or walks in the park
• Having a picnic at an outdoor park or botanical gardens
• Birdwatching from a comfortable spot with binoculars
• Canoeing or kayaking on a calm lake or river

At-Home Activities

• Hosting a virtual game night or chat over video call
• Having friends over for homemade meals and movies
• Organizing an online book, cooking, or craft club
• Playing multi-player online games together

Self-Care Activities

• Doing gentle yoga, tai chi, or stretching with friends
• Going to the spa for massages or facials
• Attending a meditation or mindfulness class together
• Cooking healthy meals together at someone's home

Tips for Talking with Friends about RA

It can be hard for friends without RA to understand the challenges you face. Having open conversations can help strengthen your relationships and your support system.

• Educate them about your symptoms and limitations so they know how to help.
• Be honest about your abilities on any given day.
• Explain ways they can support you like brief rest breaks.
• Suggest adaptations to activities you can't do anymore.
• Let friends know the best times to visit or go out based on your medication schedule.
• Help friends understand if you need to cancel plans when you have a flare-up.
• Find support groups to join together for shared understanding.

Online Resources for Social Connection

Online communities can provide social support and connection when you are unable to participate in-person. Some good options include:

• Arthritis Foundation Online Community - Connect with others about all forms of arthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Group - Facebook group with over 100k members
• Reddit Rheumatoid Community - Discuss topics with fellow Reddit users who have RA
• Inspire Rheumatoid Arthritis Forums - Chat rooms on all aspects of living with RA
• CreakyJoints - Wide range of resources plus online social networks

The Importance of Connection

Living with rheumatoid arthritis poses many daily challenges. But with some adjustments, creativity, open communication and planning, you can still maintain social connections that are vital for your overall health. Focus on quality time with loved ones and finding rheumatoid arthritis-friendly activities you can enjoy together.

With the right support system and self-care, you can thrive socially while managing your RA symptoms.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.