When faced with end-stage renal failure, elderly relatives may want to choose between dialysis and kidney replacement. Thankfully, working through the process with a loved one is much easier when you understand the details of each option.
What Is Dialysis?
Dialysis works by replicating some of the functions properly functioning kidneys would normally perform. It's used to remove excess waste and fluids in the blood, restore electrolyte balance, and aid with certain chemical processes that may not be happening due to kidney failure. There are two types of dialysis: hemodialysis (HD), which uses a machine to filter a person's blood outside their body, and peritoneal dialysis (PD), which is done inside the body through surgery.
What Is a Kidney Replacement?
On the other hand, kidney replacement, also called renal transplantation, is a surgical procedure that involves replacing a damaged or impaired kidney with one from another individual. It's usually only considered if the person's medical condition has not improved significantly with dialysis treatment.
The two primary types of kidney replacement are via living-related donor (LRD) or deceased donor (DD). In an LRD transplant, the person receives a kidney from their own relative. For DD transplants, kidneys from recently deceased individuals are used to treat end-stage renal failure patients on the national waiting list for needed organs.
Discussing the Options with Senior Relatives
Discussing the two options of dialysis and kidney replacement with elderly loved ones can be a sensitive topic. The best approach to start this conversation is by understanding their perspective, explaining each option fully, and addressing any concerns or questions they may have. Always take into consideration any advice from their physicians when discussing treatment options.
Understand Their Perspective
When discussing these options with a senior relative, it's important to understand that each person is unique and has their own way of looking at things. It's also essential to remember that this conversation can be challenging because the individual may have feelings of fear, loss of control, anxiety, or uncertainty about what lies ahead if they choose one option vs. another.
Address Concerns and Questions
Take the time to address any specific questions or concerns that your loved one may have about either dialysis or kidney replacement. Gently explain how each procedure works and what the risks and benefits of each are, so they can make their own informed decision. Additionally, provide emotional support to help them cope with any difficult decisions they may have to make.
Senior Helpers Provides In-Home Care for Seniors
At Senior Helpers, we understand that kidney disease can be difficult to manage. That's why we provide in-home health and personal care services for you or your loved ones living with end-stage renal failure who are undergoing dialysis or other treatments. Contact us today if you have any questions about ways our caregivers can help make life easier for those considering dialysis or kidney replacements in Arcola, Auburn, Fort Wayne, Garrett, Grabill, Huntertown, Laotto, Leo, New Haven, and Woodburn.