Facing daily challenges is common for teenagers with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), and trying to find reliable information and resources to assist them, can be difficult. To help teens overcome these obstacles and make a smoother transition to adult healthcare, a new online program called “Taking Charge: Managing JIA Online Program” is now available on AOWA’s website.

 

A team of researchers led by Dr Jennifer Stinson at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) developed the interactive, internet-based program. The online program offers ten informative sessions that provide teens and their parents with a comprehensive and easily accessible resource to manage their condition.

 

According to Dr Stinson, the principal investigator of this research, “teens are expected to take on more responsibility for managing their arthritis as they mature and gain independence in many areas of their life.”

 

The program was designed to help teens navigate the challenges of managing a chronic condition and provides a wealth of information on JIA, its treatments, and self-management strategies.

 

The modules provide a wealth of information through video, illustrations, resources, and website links. Some of the topics covered include managing symptoms, coping strategies, self-monitoring and support.

 

“Looking Ahead” is the final module presented and covers between the ages of 18 to 22, when most teens will likely transition from paediatric rheumatologist to the adult health care setting.

 

The “Taking Charge: Managing JIA Online Program” is a welcome addition to the healthcare landscape for teens with JIA. It acts as a personal toolkit where teens can go through the modules at their own pace and learn the best ways to take care of themselves, making them feel more confident and in control of their lives.