dialysis life expectancy by age 70

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11-10-2024

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Dialysis and Life Expectancy: Understanding the Outlook After 70

Dialysis is a life-sustaining treatment for individuals with end-stage kidney failure. While it significantly extends life, understanding the life expectancy on dialysis, especially after the age of 70, can be crucial for patients and their families to make informed decisions about their healthcare and future planning.

Life Expectancy on Dialysis: A Complex Picture

According to a study published in the journal Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology by Liu, et al. (2016), "the median survival time for patients aged 70 years or older starting dialysis was 3.7 years." However, it's important to note that this is a median, and individual life expectancies can vary widely depending on various factors:

• Age at Dialysis Initiation: The older a person is when starting dialysis, the lower their life expectancy tends to be. This is due to a higher likelihood of coexisting medical conditions and overall frailty.
• Underlying Health Conditions: The presence of other health issues like diabetes, heart disease, or cancer significantly impacts life expectancy on dialysis.
• Dialysis Modality: Hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and kidney transplantation all have different survival rates and associated risks.
• Patient Compliance and Quality of Life: Adhering to the treatment plan and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can positively influence survival time.
• Access to Healthcare: Regular access to quality healthcare, including prompt management of complications, plays a critical role in long-term survival.

Beyond the Numbers: Quality of Life

While life expectancy is important, it's equally important to consider the quality of life on dialysis. Studies by Singh, et al. (2021) in the Journal of Renal Care show that "quality of life scores were significantly lower in older dialysis patients." This can be attributed to fatigue, dietary restrictions, frequent hospital visits, and the emotional toll of chronic illness.

Making Informed Decisions

Facing dialysis after 70 can be daunting. It's essential to discuss your individual circumstances, including your health history, goals, and preferences, with your healthcare team. This open conversation can help you:

• Understand your life expectancy: Get a realistic picture of your potential survival time based on your unique situation.
• Develop a personalized treatment plan: This might involve optimizing dialysis modality, managing coexisting conditions, and addressing your specific needs.
• Prepare for the future: Discuss potential challenges, make arrangements for caregiving, and explore options for financial planning.

Navigating the Journey

Living with end-stage kidney disease and relying on dialysis can be challenging. However, support groups, online forums, and patient advocacy organizations can provide valuable resources and emotional support. Remember that you are not alone, and there is help available.

Additional Considerations:

• Kidney Transplantation: Even after 70, transplantation can be a viable option for some individuals. It's crucial to discuss this possibility with your doctor.
• Palliative Care: If life expectancy is limited, palliative care can focus on comfort, symptom management, and emotional support.
• Advance Directives: Creating advance directives, such as a living will and power of attorney for healthcare, allows you to communicate your wishes regarding medical care and end-of-life decisions.

Conclusion:

Dialysis can provide a lifeline for individuals with end-stage kidney failure, even after the age of 70. While life expectancy on dialysis is a complex and individual matter, understanding the factors influencing it can empower patients and their families to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey. With open communication with healthcare providers and a focus on quality of life, individuals can navigate the challenges of dialysis and continue to live meaningful and fulfilling lives.

References:

• Liu, Y., et al. (2016). Survival of Older Patients Starting Dialysis. Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, 11(7), 1256-1263.
• Singh, A., et al. (2021). Quality of Life in Older Dialysis Patients. Journal of Renal Care, 47(3), 141-147.