Arthritis is a very common health complaint of older Americans, and older people worldwide.

The term Arthritis actually refers to over 100 diseases, but the most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis.

Nearly one in three of every older adults have some form of arthritis, and for some this is simply a health complaint, and more serious health problem than for others.

Arthritis is usually caused by some kind of joint inflammation.

While inflammation is a normal and healthy response to any kind of injury. Arthritis is inflammation in the joints or area surrounding the joints, that often comes from normal, long term, "wear and tear" and is often painful and is sometimes stiff and achy.

As we age, the cartilage that is between the bones to cushion them wears away. This is a normal part of healthy aging, and there isn't a lot that can be done about it. The bones rub together, and that causes inflammation. The most common places for arthritis are the hands, knees, hips and spine.

The symptoms of arthritis as a health issue are pain, swelling, tenderness, stiffness, redness and warmth in the affected area or joint.

Age is the most common factor for arthritis. While women get arthritis much more often than men, it is older women are more at risk than older men. Women have lower bone density and age, as well as menopause decrease bone density even more, placing them at risk for the disease.

Also those that are obese and those in certain types of work that often use repetitive motions or a lot of physical activity, especially arthritis in or around their knees.

Whether or not a person gets arthritis as a health problem in old age also seems to depend on genetics, and lifestyle choices, too.

Arthritis is treated in a variety of ways, and it is best treatment begins with consulting a doctor when a person suspects they have the health issue of arthritis, so that more serious arthritis health problems can be ruled out.

Sources: http://webmd.com