Health Tip: Coping With Juvenile Arthritis

How to help your child adjust

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(HealthDay News) -- Arthritis isn't just a disease of the elderly. Children may be affected by a disease called juvenile arthritis.

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The Arthritis Foundation offers these suggestions to help families cope with the condition:

• Family members should openly discuss what each person is feeling, including concerns, anger and fears.
• The child with juvenile arthritis should not be allowed to shirk responsibilities, as long as he or she is physically able to fulfill them.
• Teach your child about the disease, including information about management and treatment, in an age-appropriate way.
• Don't be overbearing or overprotective. Encourage independence and responsibility.
• Spend time with each other -- as a family, and one-on-one with your child.

-- Diana Kohnle