Caring for Dialysis Patients

All dialysis journeys are unique, life-changing and will transform your everyday life. This is not only true for those living with the condition – it also affects those who provide care and support throughout the journey, also known as caregivers.

Caring for someone with chronic kidney disease (CKD) can be both a challenging and rewarding experience. You may feel anxious about your loved one being ill or being able to provide them the help and support they need. This is normal. Just remember that taking care of yourself is just as important. Understanding the impact of this journey, the different therapy requirements and the new routines you can expect will prepare you to cope with challenges and enable both of you to live your lives to the fullest.

elderly couple discussing treatment options for CKD

Coping with Your Emotions and Lifestyle Changes

Caring for dialysis patients can be life changing for you too. At first, it may feel like a tremendous amount of change, but as you get into a routine, most tasks will become daily habits. There are several ways that may help you better adjust to your new role, your feelings and the impact dialysis can have on your lifestyle.

A person lying down on a bed.

Understanding Your Role in Supporting Peritoneal Dialysis (PD)

If the person you're caring for is considering peritoneal dialysis (PD), it means that he or she will be doing their treatment at home, quite possibly at night, overnight. There are many advantages to beginning on home based peritoneal dialysis (PD at home) and a few ways you can help make the most out of these advantages.

A person lying down on a hospital bed.

Helping Care for Someone on In-centre Haemodialysis (In-Centre HD)

In-centre haemodialysis (In-Centre HD) is a treatment option many people choose for their dialysis journey. There are certain things you should know to help care for them, and yourself along this path. Firstly, in-centre dialysis can be done several times per week and last 4-5 hours to overnight for each session. This is a commitment you both need to prepare for.