| Theme |
Individualized treatment and care for elderly dialysis patients |
| Title |
Dialysis care for dementia patients |
| Author |
Hirofumi Nakano |
Division of Dialysis Center, Kashima Hospital |
| Author |
Fumihiro Takeguchi |
Department of Nephrology, Tokyo Medical University |
| Author |
Shuichiro Yamanaka |
Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, The Jikei University of Medicine |
| [ Summary ] |
In Japan, as the number of elderly dialysis patients is increasing. Many patients with cognitive impairment and reduced ADL require various support systems. Dementia symptoms observed in dialysis patients occur from various medical disorders, including neurologic diseases. As a result, differential diagnoses and individual treatments for cognitive disorders are essential. Improving the physical condition of these patients and maintaining desirable relationships between patients and staff members constitutes the basics of dementia care. Furthermore, management of the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) is important to prevent medical trouble during dialysis. The burden for families who care for dialysis patients who have many complications besides renal insufficiency is extremely heavy. Comprehensive support systems including cooperation between medical staffs must be implemented. |