Sleep Disturbances in Older Adults Receiving Dialysis

Abstract

Sleep disturbances are serious issues in individuals with end stage kidney disease because they are associated with worsening kidney function and other negative health outcomes, especially in older adults. Our analysis aimed to provide clinicians with the conceptual clarity required for managing sleep disturbances in older patients who are receiving dialysis. A literature review revealed three attributes that define this population's sleep disturbances: sleep initiation and maintenance difficulties, restless sleep and short sleep, and abnormal breathing during sleep. Con sidering the serious consequences and correlates of sleep disturbances in older patients who are receiving dialysis, tailored interventions are needed to improve their sleep. Our literature review, concept analysis, and case studies provide key information for designing future mechanistic, clinical-translational, and interventional research.

Keywords: concept analysis; dialysis; end stage kidney disease; older adults; sleep disturbances.