Back to Search Start Over

End stage kidney disease in the elderly: Hope for the best

End stage kidney disease in the elderly: Hope for the best

Authors :
Ana Farinha
Patrícia Valério
Source :
Portuguese Journal of Nephrology & Hypertension v.34 n.4 2020
Publication Year :
2021
Publisher :
Publicacoes Ciencia e Vida, Lda, 2021.

Abstract

With an increased number of aged chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients, along with medical and technological advances, the options to approach end‑stage kidney disease (ESKD) have multiplied. Nephrologists should be aware that taking care of elderly patients is different from taking care of younger ones. The spectrum of choices is as wide as the functional status of these patients. For fit ones, the main goal should be to restore function as much as possible and to rehabilitate. On the other hand, for frail patients, the expectations should be realistic in terms of survival, disease trajectory and symptomatic control, because while kidney replacement therapies can prolong life, they do not cure. The issue is complex due to its multidimensional perspective, so decisions must take into account the patient’s options, respecting his/her autonomy, dignity and quality of life. This text aims to review the particularities of geriatric CKD patients’ assessment towards options to care for ESKD, in a specific population which is growing in our practice.

Details

ISSN :
21831289 and 08720169
Volume :
34
Database :
OpenAIRE
Journal :
Portuguese Journal of Nephrology & Hypertension
Accession number :
edsair.doi.dedup.....934efc2f9e0145854fa2248e9eb4beb8
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.32932/pjnh.2021.01.102