Experiences of Living with Assisted Peritoneal Dialysis - A Qualitative Study.

Background: People's experiences of living with assisted peritoneal dialysis (aPD) have not been studied previously. Assisted PD is successfully used as renal replacement therapy for elderly and disabled patients with end-stage renal disease. To be treated with aPD implies being dependent on lifelong treatment at home. The aim of this study was to explore adults' experiences of living with aPD.

Methods: In-depth interviews were conducted with 10 participants with aPD, median age 82.5 years. The text was analyzed using a phenomenological-hermeneutical method.

Results: The participants experienced limitations and an uncertain future, but through different strategies and participation in healthcare, they could still enjoy what was important in life for them. The analysis of the text resulted in 4 main themes; 1) Facing new demands, 2) Managing daily life, 3) Partnership in care, and 4) Experiencing a meaningful life, leading to the comprehensive understanding: 'Striving for maintaining wellbeing'.

Conclusion: The participants expressed that they experienced a good quality of life despite being physically frail, severely ill, and in need of home-based lifesaving treatment. The findings suggest that aPD should be available everywhere where PD is offered. Integrating the model of person-centered care may greatly improve the care for persons living with aPD.