The effect of an osteoarthritis adaptation program on biological, psychological, and social integrity variables and quality of life in older women with osteoarthritis in Korea: a quasi-experimental study

Purpose: This study aimed to determine whether an osteoarthritis adaptation program increased biological, psychological, and social integrity variables and quality of life in older women with osteoarthritis in Korea. Methods: This study employed a non-equivalent control group pretest–posttest design, allocating 51 older women with osteoarthritis to an experimental group (26 participants) and a control group (25 participants). The program was conducted thrice weekly for 12 weeks, with each session lasting 60 to 90 minutes. It combined exercises (flexibility, muscle strength, and aerobic) and education (pain control, nutrition management, and compliance). Results: Pain differed significantly between the groups (F = 12.10, p < .001), and the time-group interaction was also significant (F = 23.65, p < .001). Difficulty in daily living did not show significant differences between the groups (F = 3.88, p = .055), although the time-group interaction was significant (F = 39.57, p < .001). Depression showed a significant difference between the groups (F = 7.24, p = .010), as did the time-group interaction (F = 9.17, p = .002). Social support also differed significantly between the groups (F = 46.07, p < .001), and the time-group interaction was significant (F = 45.22, p < .001). Quality of life showed significant differences between the groups (F = 29.04, p < .001), and the time-group interaction was also significant for this variable (F = 64.32, p < .001). Conclusion: The osteoarthritis adaptation program effectively improved biological, psychological, and social integrity variables in older women with osteoarthritis. Therefore, this program offers considerable benefits to older women with chronic osteoarthritis, emphasizing its value for individuals with osteoarthritis living in the community.