10 Autoimmune Diseases Common in NZ Retirees

Autoimmune diseases are often invisible, but their effects on energy, movement, and organ function are anything but. More retirees are managing chronic conditions that demand attention and adaptation, as New Zealand’s population ages.

Recognising the signs early can change outcomes—from joint stiffness to persistent fatigue. This comprehensive guide breaks down the 10 most common autoimmune diseases retirees face, with tools to stay informed, active, and in control.

1. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid arthritis is the most commonly diagnosed autoimmune disease among older adults in New Zealand. It involves chronic inflammation of joints, particularly affecting hands, feet, and knees, resulting in pain, swelling, stiffness, and disability in advanced cases.

Joint pain can severely limit mobility and independence for retirees. Morning stiffness lasting over 30 minutes and symmetrical joint swelling are key early signs. Early diagnosis and treatment with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) can dramatically reduce long-term joint damage.

Here’s what you can do:

– Engage regularly with a rheumatologist for tailored medication plans.

– Incorporate gentle, low-impact exercise like swimming or walking to sustain joint function while avoiding overexertion.

-Use assistive devices such as grips or jar openers to reduce strain.

-Maintain a balanced anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and flaxseeds.

– Join local arthritis support groups, such as those provided by Arthritis New Zealand, to access education and peer support.

2. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (Lupus)

Lupus is a complex autoimmune disease that can affect skin, joints, kidneys, brain, and other organs. It is notably more common in Pacific, Māori, and Asian women in New Zealand, making cultural sensitivity critical in care.

Symptoms often include fatigue, joint pain, a distinctive butterfly-shaped rash on the face, and sensitivity to sunlight. Because lupus can strike multiple organs, management requires ongoing specialist oversight.

Here’s what you can do:

– Develop a strong partnership with your healthcare team to monitor organ function and adjust medications

– Strictly adhere to immunosuppressive meds to prevent flares

– Minimise sun exposure with broad-spectrum sunscreen and protective clothing

– Keep a symptom diary to track flare patterns for more precise treatment adjustments

– Prioritise mental health by accessing counselling 

– Maintain hydration and balanced nutrition to support your immune system

3. Sjögren’s Syndrome

Sjögren’s primarily attacks moisture-producing glands, causing debilitating dry eyes and mouth, which affect many retirees, especially women over 40. Chronic fatigue and joint pain often accompany glandular symptoms.

Left unmanaged, dry mouth increases risk of dental decay and oral infections; dry eyes can lead to discomfort and visual disturbances.

Here’s what you can do:

-Use preservative-free artificial tears regularly and consult eye specialists for options like punctal plugs

– Sip water frequently and use saliva substitutes to ease oral dryness

– Maintain rigorous dental hygiene and schedule regular check-ups

– Use humidifiers at home, especially in dry seasons

– Pace daily activities carefully to manage fatigue without sacrificing independence

– Discuss fatigue management with healthcare providers 

Understanding the systemic nature of Sjögren’s empowers retirees to manage symptoms effectively.

4. Autoimmune Thyroid Disease

Autoimmune thyroid diseases including Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (hypothyroidism) and Graves’ disease (hyperthyroidism) commonly affect older adults. They disturb energy metabolism, weight regulation, mood, and cardiovascular health.

Hypothyroidism symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and depression often mimic normal ageing, making diagnosis tricky without blood tests.

Here’s what you can do:

– Pursue annual thyroid screening with your GP, especially if you have symptoms or family history

– Take prescribed thyroid hormone replacement or antithyroid medications exactly as directed

– Avoid sudden medication changes without medical guidance to prevent complications

– Monitor and report symptoms routinely to adjust treatment promptly

– Support thyroid health through balanced nutrition and stress reduction techniques

– Stay physically active to combat fatigue and support metabolism

5. Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disease that causes red, scaly patches, often accompanied by psoriatic arthritis in retirees, which causes joint pain and swelling.

The visible skin symptoms can cause emotional distress, while joint symptoms impact mobility.

Here’s what you can do:

– Use prescribed topical treatments consistently and attend regular dermatologist reviews

– For psoriatic arthritis, early rheumatology assessment is crucial to prevent joint damage

– Maintain skin moisture with emollients to reduce flare-ups

– Avoid known triggers like stress, smoking, and excessive alcohol

– Engage in low-impact exercise to maintain joint flexibility

– Seek psychological support if skin symptoms affect confidence or social life

6. Coeliac Disease

Coeliac disease, where gluten induces an autoimmune response damaging the small intestine, is increasingly diagnosed in retirees. Untreated, it leads to malabsorption, nutrient deficiencies, fatigue, and other complications.

Here’s what you can do:

– Undergo appropriate diagnostic testing

– Commit to a strict gluten-free diet, avoiding wheat, barley, and rye

– Consult dietitians familiar with gluten-free nutrition to maintain a balanced diet

– Monitor for bone health, as malabsorption can lead to osteoporosis

– Join patient support groups to learn recipes and share experiences

7. Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease that attacks the protective covering of nerve fibres, causing symptoms such as muscle weakness, coordination problems, and fatigue.

While MS often begins earlier in life, many retirees either live with its long-term effects or receive late diagnoses.

Here’s what you can do:

-Work closely with neurologists 

-Employ physiotherapy and occupational therapy 

-Use assistive devices and home modifications to promote safety and independence

-Manage fatigue through pacing strategies and sleep hygiene

-Engage in cognitive rehabilitation if memory or concentration issues arise

-Prioritise mental health support to cope with chronic illness challenges

8. Autoimmune Liver Diseases

Autoimmune liver diseases such as autoimmune hepatitis and primary biliary cholangitis cause progressive liver inflammation and damage. Around 2,000 people live with these conditions in New Zealand, including retirees.

Symptoms may be vague such as fatigue, itching, jaundice—making early detection challenging.

Here’s what you can do:

– Report any signs like persistent fatigue, abdominal discomfort, or changes in urine/stool colour promptly

-Ensure regular liver function tests during GP visits

-Adhere to immunosuppressive treatments to control inflammation

-Adopt liver-friendly lifestyle choices—abstain from alcohol, maintain healthy weight, and get vaccinated for hepatitis viruses

-Engage with hepatology specialists and patient support services for ongoing management

Early diagnosis and management can prevent progression to liver failure.

9. Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR)

Polymyalgia Rheumatica causes muscle pain and stiffness in shoulders and hips, predominantly affecting people over 50. While not always classified as classic autoimmunity, it’s widely considered immune-mediated.

Rapid onset of symptoms can be alarming, but it responds well to corticosteroids.

Here’s what you can do:

– Seek prompt medical evaluation for new-onset bilateral shoulder stiffness or pain

-Follow prescribed corticosteroid therapy carefully, and attend regular blood tests to monitor inflammation and side effects

-Utilise gentle stretching and physical activity to maintain mobility

-Discuss bone health with your GP as corticosteroids can increase osteoporosis risk

-Be alert for giant cell arteritis, a potential serious complication presenting with headaches or vision changes

10. Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

While less common to develop in older adults, some retirees do have Type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing cells. Proper management is crucial to avoid complications.

Here’s what you can do:

-Regular blood glucose monitoring and insulin administration tailored to lifestyle are essential

-Maintain balanced nutrition and physical activity to stabilise blood sugar

-Attend regular diabetes check-ups focusing on cardiovascular health, kidney function, and eye screening

-Educate yourself and caregivers on hypoglycaemia recognition and management

-Engage diabetes support networks for shared education and emotional support

Conclusion

Autoimmune diseases are a rising health concern among New Zealand retirees, often arriving subtly but with lasting effect.

Autoimmune conditions can erode quality of life if left unmanaged from inflamed joints to unexplained fatigue—but with regular check-ups, self-advocacy, and informed treatment, retirees can stay in control.