Background. Health-related quality of life (QOL) is an important
outcome for older people who are often on dialysis
for life. Little is, however, known about differences in QOL
on haemodialysis (HD) and peritoneal dialysis (PD) in older
age groups. Randomising patients to either modality to
assess outcomes is not feasible.
Methods. In this cross-sectional, multi-centred study we
conducted QOL assessments (Short Form-12 Mental and
Physical Component Summary scales, Hospital Anxiety
and Depression Scale and Illness Intrusiveness Ratings
Scale) in 140 people (aged 65 years or older) on PD
and HD.
Results. The groups were similar in age, gender, time on
dialysis, ethnicity, Index of Deprivation (based on postcode),
dialysis adequacy, cognitive function (Mini-Mental
State Exam and Trail-Making Test B), nutritional status
(Subjective Global Assessment) and social networks.
There was a higher comorbidity score in the HD group.
Regression analyses were undertaken to ascertain which
variables significantly influence each QOL assessment.
All were influenced by symptom count highlighting that
the patient’s perception of their symptoms is a critical
determinant of their mental and physical well being.
Modality was found to be an independent predictor
of illness intrusion with greater intrusion felt in those
on HD.
Conclusions. Overall, in two closely matched demographic
groups of older dialysis patients, QOL was similar, if not
better, in those on PD. This study strongly supports offering
PD to all suitable older people.