Arthritis is the leading cause of working disability among adults according to the CDC.  There are over one hundred different variations of arthritis and is often accompanied by other chronic conditions.  Arthritis affects all ages and genders but is most common in women.  According to America’s Health Rankings Annual Report for 2021, 32.2% of Kentucky residents report a diagnosis of Arthritis. 

A cure for arthritis has not been found but it can be managed with treatment and lifestyle changes.   A request was made to the Family and Consumer agent in Estill County for a class on managing arthritis.  The Family and Consumer agent presented a Lunch and Learn Living with Arthritis to fill this request.  

The Lunch and Learn included a meal of slow-roasted salmon, black bean and quinoa salad, roasted vegetables, and a fruit salad with honey and mint.  The food was an example of arthritis friendly meal, which was also easy to prepare for someone suffering from arthritis.  My Plate was also included in the presentation as an example of healthy eating.

The lesson included information on the most common types of arthritis and other chronic conditions that may accompany arthritis. Available treatment plans were also discussed.  The lesson also had exercise suggestions, lifestyle changes, and additional scientific resources for participates information.

Seven participants attended the Lunch and Learn, and one person was presented the meals and lesson as a pick-up due to illness.  One person later received the packet of information on the lesson because they were unable to attend.  One hundred percent of the participants surveyed stated that they improved knowledge regarding life span behavior and decisions that affect health and well-being (such as enhanced knowledge of: positive attitude, smart and healthy eating, physical activity, mental activity, meaningful social connections, tuning-in to the times, safety, health numbers, stress management, sleep, and taking personal time). Six of the participants poled reported intentions to improve healthy lifestyles and behaviors (including enhanced positive attitude, smart and healthy eating, physical activity, mental activity, meaningful social connections, tuning-in to the times, safety, health numbers, stress management, sleep, and taking personal time).  One participant stated, “I really enjoyed the program and learned a lot about arthritis, and I really enjoyed the meal.”