A program of 8 lessons on various aspects of osteoarthritis (OA), its treatment, and patient self-care was prepared on an Apple IIc computer. The courses were then field-tested and evaluated by 72 older (age range 52-88) OA patients in community centers for senior citizens. Statistical analysis of the findings showed significant increases in knowledge and significant selfreported, beneficial behavior changes, including increased exercise, use of heat, and rest. Our findings demonstrate that older persons can use the computer to learn to cope with OA when a thoughtfully planned program is made available in a community setting.Osteoarthritis is ubiquitous: Over 16 million persons in the United States alone have the disease. Many of them, believing the disease to be an inevitable consequence of age, do little to seek treatment and relief; consequently, they experience more pain and debilitation than necessary.
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