Usually elderly patients would be scared of going thru operations. Maybe you could try explaining to her that knee replacements would prove beneficial as to her ambulation. Patients sometimes wouldn't follow an exercise regimen or refuse to go for surgery due to the fact that they have not been informed thorougly of what arthritis is all about. Discussing the goals,and the treatment available for her like what jwilso mentioned will be the main key in improving her quality of life.

Rehabilitation of the individual with arthritis is most often directed toward restoring or maintaining joint mobility and strength, and emphasizes functional retraining,eps. patient education , which promotes the highest possible level of functional independence.



REgards,
Charlize29