Older patients on dialysis have a high prevalance of depression and cognitive impairment

The purpose of this study published 2005 in Aging and Mental Health was to evaluate levels of cognitive impairment, depressive mood and self-reported quality of life in older dialysis patients (>70 years). A total of 51 outpatients receiving dialysis were assessed by psychologists, using a depression scale (MADRS), two cognitive tests (MMSE and BEC 96),…

Communicating openly has a positive impact on patients on dialysis

This study examines the degree to which perceptions of open communication between patients and staff affect patients’ mental health. Open disclosure correlated independently with lower levels of depression at baselineand a predicted significant decrease in depression over time. Other interpersonal characteristics (limited equality, respect and helpfulness) did not correlate with depression or subjective well-being at…