Religiosity in a hemodialysis population and its relationship to satisfaction with medical care, satisfaction with life, and adherence.

Background: The religious beliefs and spirituality of patients on hemodialysis (HD) therapy have not been studied extensively. Studies of the dialysis population seem to indicate that religion may be associated with increased patient satisfaction with life and increased levels of social support.

Methods: Using multiple religiosity scales and scales to assess patient satisfaction with life and social support, we studied the relationship between religiosity and medical and/or social factors and adherence to treatment in 74 HD patients.

Results: High scores on the Intrinsic Religiosity Scale were associated strongly with high scores on the Satisfaction With Life Scale, whereas age and high Organizational Religious Activity Scale scores were associated strongly with high scores on the Satisfaction With Medical Care Scale. Older age was associated strongly with increased adherence. No relationship existed between religiosity and adherence in our population.

Conclusion: Religious beliefs are related strongly to measures of satisfaction with life, whereas religious behaviors are related to satisfaction with medical care. Age is the single most important demographic factor associated with adherence. Because of the complex nature of religiosity, additional investigation is in order.