Abstract
As the population ages, the incidence of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in older people is rising. Nursing home residents are predominantly older and account for up to 4.8% of the ESRD population. This group of patients are frail and comorbid with multiple symptoms and cognitive impairment. Survival is poor in the older patient with ESRD, with the 1-year mortality rate approaching 35%. Therefore, managing such patients can be particularly challenging. The debate continues as to how best approach the management of ESRD in this high-risk group. This article discusses the dialysis options for nursing home residents, highlighting the potential advantages and disadvantages of each. It advocates conservative care as a valid alternative in this population. It also discusses the need for a multidisciplinary approach to medical care and advance care planning for end of life.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
