CONCLUSIONS
Our results illustrate that most elderly ESRD patients 65 years of age and older have the ability to perform their own exchanges. Careful patient assessment, pre-dialysis education, and appropriate CAPD training methods for elderly patients are important in helping this population to have an independent life. Elderly patients are more likely to adhere to the treatment regimen, and they tend to have greater motivation for dialysis treatment (11). The CAPD modality is appropriate for these patients, and good technique and patient survival are observed whether exchanges are performed by the patients themselves or by a helper.
Nephrologists should no longer use age alone to determine whether to offer or withhold dialysis for elderly ESRD patients. The CAPD modality is a good option that can be offered to elderly patients. Respecting the needs and rights of elderly patients and maintaining their ability for self-care are other important aspects to consider when planning for long-term dialysis (18). Renal team members should be prepared for a slightly longer training time when providing CAPD to elderly ESRD patients.
The present study confirmed that CAPD is an effective dialysis modality for elderly ESRD patients. Self-care CAPD is possible in most cases, and assisted CAPD provides comparably good clinical outcome in terms of patient and technique survival and peritonitis-free period.