| [ Summary ] |
Home hemodialysis (HHD) is an appropriate method to provide dialysis to elderly patients. This is because it can be easily performed frequently and continuously. Considering the case of HHD patients treated in the author's hospital, this treatment modality is applicable even for elderly patients, if they meet some requirements, including appropriate learning ability. Sufficient amounts of dialysis therapy provided through HHD may lead to improvements in patients' QOL by preventing complications and minimizing negative symptoms. In addition, the author's experiences while caring for 2 HHD patients who died last year may provide positive input for care of terminally ill elderly patients, including those currently undergoing HHD. To make appropriate choices for end-of-life treatment, it is important to respect the opinions of patient and their families. |