Geriatric issues in the diagnosis and management of patients with rheumatic disorders.

The musculoskeletal diseases account for the most frequent complaints among older persons. Rarely is it possible to provide the patient with complete symptomatic relief. Instead, the patient needs to be taught good health habits, good concepts of preventive care, the value of rehabilitation, the gains to be achieved through non-pharmacologic therapy, and a recognition that symptoms reflect emotional problems as well as diseased musculoskeletal tissue. Most important, the patient needs to be taught that he or she can live a full exciting life despite the limitations imposed by the musculoskeletal disease. Encouragement of this attitude and institution of any and all measures that will enhance the patient's ability to retain independence are the major components of ongoing care for this growing segment of our population.