Peritoneal dialysis in elderly patients

People over the age of 80 years are the fastest-growing segment of the population with stage 5 chronic kidney disease, which is dialysis initiation. We set out to describe the experiences of those elderly patients in initiating and being maintained on peritoneal dialysis. We interviewed 4 patients (1 woman, 3 men; time on dialysis: 2-5 years) 75-88 years of age. A predetermined set of questions evaluating 7 domain topics were asked. The topics were initiating dialysis, dialysis knowledge, physical condition, social support, experience of dialysis, psychological support, and coordination of care. These in-depth interviews were analyzed in each category to determine common themes. Within each domain, several themes were identified. The themes most important for physicians to understand to be able to deliver a high level of care to elderly patients on dialysis were the importance of peer and family influence on decision-making, the patient's support system, the patient's integration into the community, and the patient's increased perception of autonomy. Patients in this age group on peritoneal dialysis have strong support systems and an increased perception of autonomy that allows them to be integrated into their community through hobbies and other social engagements.