Kidney Disease

Frequently Asked Questions

16. What special issues face older adults who have dialysis?

Dialysis can be a special challenge for older adults, especially those who have other diseases or conditions. For example, hemodialysis requires that a person be able to leave home, travel to the dialysis facility, and sit for 4 hours during treatment. Peritoneal dialysis can be done at home, but requires someone to help. Often, older adults require assistance with some or all of these activities, and they and their families need to consider these issues as they choose treatment options and living facilities.