Most seniors develop certain health conditions that arise with age. This includes kidney-related issues. And when it comes to kidney diseases at a dangerous stage, seniors often have to choose between dialysis or kidney replacement. However, addressing these health concerns to discuss the different options with your senior loved one can be challenging. Not only will this decision impact their future quality of life, but it could also their recovery. Learn more about how you can raise the subject of dialysis vs. kidney replacement with your elderly relatives in need of such treatments to help them reach the best decision for their future health.
Definition of Dialysis vs. Kidney Replacement
Dialysis is a way of filtering and purifying blood when the kidneys are not functioning normally. This process uses a machine to run wastes out of the body with ultrapure dialysate solutions. This can include hemodialysis, using an artificial kidney, or peritoneal dialysis, where a catheter is inserted into the abdominal cavity to clean out toxins and waste products using sterile fluids.
On the other hand, kidney replacement surgery replaces damaged or failing kidneys with healthy ones from donors. Afterward, trained professionals help guide seniors through the recovery process.
Understanding the Pros and Cons of Dialysis
Dialysis can help manage advanced kidney diseases like secondary hypertension and electrolyte imbalance. It can provide a better quality of life with improved medical condition management. Your senior’s doctors will also provide a workaround for existing medications to accommodate the procedure.
However, this treatment requires regular visits to the clinic for several hours at a time. Furthermore, there may be a risk of issues like sepsis and catheter-related blood clots. A delayed healing process can also occur after exceptionally long sessions due to fatigue from being connected to the machine for so long.
Understanding the Pros and Cons of Kidney Replacement
Kidney replacement surgery is an effective treatment option for more severe conditions such as acute or chronic kidney failure. It provides many advantages to patients, including:
- Longer life expectancy compared to continued dialysis treatments
- Higher energy level
Kidney replacement surgery is generally safe when done by experienced professionals but may come with some complications:
- Infection
- Organ rejection
Seniors are more susceptible to issues after a kidney replacement. That’s why it's essential for your senior loved one to be aware of these before making surgery decisions, as they could have far-reaching consequences.
How to Talk to Seniors About Their Options
When sitting down with elderly family members to discuss dialysis vs. kidney replacement, you have to make sure first and foremost that all parties are comfortable before discussing the issue. Then, try and find out how much information your elderly relative has about potential treatments already so questions can be tailored based on their current knowledge level.
Outlining both options is paramount in helping them make an informed decision. You should also let your loved ones raise any queries or issues associated with these methods. Listening carefully to their concerns is vital as this can help better inform any decisions made during talks.
Most importantly, please don't rush into anything. Give your loved one ample time to consider each approach and how it would affect their future. Also, respect it if wish to speak to their doctors or do their own research afterward. Giving them this time can help them become more comfortable with their choice.
In-Home Support for Those Facing These Difficult Choices
Deciding between dialysis vs. kidney replacement for elderly family members is a big and important decision. Prepare adequately before discussions and present both sides clearly so that your loved ones can make an informed conclusion. It will have considerable ramifications on their health, mental well-being, and quality of life in the future. In New Kensington, Pittsburgh, and Kittanning, PA, local home care professionals can help guide these discussions when needed and provide post-operative care at home. Call Senior Helpers New Kensington for a free in-home consultation today.