My Mom has been on dialysis for the last six years, since turning age 78. She became very ill with chronic renal (kidney) failure and her first year of illness was brutal. She could never return to her apartment and we tried assisted living, which lasted one week. We begged her to do her physical therapy and to work to improve her strength. But she could not and/or would not, and a steady decline, both physically and mentally began. She has lived in a full care facility, not being able to care for herself in any way. Taken by wheelchair she dutifully goes to her dialysis three times a week, no longer able to contemplate choice. Although the first few years she would remark that she hated dialysis, but figured she had to continue. My sister lives near her and visits often. Also, companions have been hired to add extra tender loving care. Sadly my mother continues to retreat into her own world, hardly speaking anymore. Of course, we love our mother so very much and this has been a very hard emotional journey. I’d be interested in hearing about other aging parents on dialysis. Thank you for this fine website.

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