Young people living with arthritis are to receive additional support as they self-isolate amid the coronavirus pandemic with the launch of a new app.
The software, developed by charity Versus Arthritis, has been designed for 13-to-25-year-olds and offers round-the-clock information and advice.
It allows them to rate and record and their symptoms and medication side effects so they can better communicate with their doctors, particularly in situations where they cannot talk with them face-to-face.
There are almost three million under-35s in the UK with a musculoskeletal condition, and more than half are having to shield from Covid-19 because they take immunosuppressant drugs.
Melissa Tavendale was recently diagnosed with Seronegative inflammatory arthritis after spending a year suffering the symptoms.
The 19-year-old is studying medicine at Dundee University, but is currently living with her parents in Portlethen during the lockdown.
She said: “The app is very easy to use and seems to be working very well.
“I like the extra info with tips and advice about managing my condition.”
Sophie Mullen from Versus Arthritis led the app creation project alongside a number of young people.
She said: “Arthritis is too often dismissed as an old person’s disease, but it doesn’t discriminate by age – two-thirds of people with arthritis are under 65.
“We want to ensure nobody with arthritis is left alone.
“Our app provides much-needed additional support which young people can access anywhere, including from the comfort and safety of their home.
“Technology is helping us bridge the gap to those who were already isolated, and who face more restrictions to their life because of Covid-19.
“Most will never have met other young people their age with the condition, who understand what they’re going through. This app will help us change that.”
