The need for dialysis may feel overwhelming at any stage of life, but for seniors, the idea of starting a new and unfamiliar medical process can be devastating. Understanding what dialysis entails, what common concerns are present, and any potential discomfort involved can help arm you with the knowledge to break free from fear.
It’s also helpful to understand how the right care environment, like our skilled nursing facilities at Haven Health, can help senior citizens and their families feel more confident, supported, and equipped to take on dialysis.
If you or your loved ones need dialysis and are considering skilled nursing, contact us today to discuss questions or to schedule a tour. Haven Health offers in-house dialysis treatments at our Tucson and Sky Harbor locations.
What Is Dialysis?
Dialysis is a process wherein the blood is filtered with a machine when the kidneys can no longer properly clean the blood effectively. The process effectively takes the place of the kidneys when they have been compromised, due to kidney disease or another affliction.
For many seniors, kidney disease evolves gradually and is often connected to other chronic conditions, like diabetes or heart disease. Dialysis is required when the kidneys reach a certain level of ineffectiveness, and the body can no longer process waste and other undesirable products effectively.
Treatments typically last three to four hours per session. Patients typically receive dialysis treatments multiple times a week. The procedure is safe and common, with about two million people around the world receiving the treatment regularly.
Common Dialysis Concerns
For seniors in particular, dialysis often needs a carefully considered approach due to many factors associated with aging, such as mobility issues, medication management, fatigue, other co-existing medical conditions, and more.
Many also worry about how demanding the treatment schedule can be, and if the dialysis process is painful. Additionally, families worry about whether their loved ones are getting proper treatment on time, and the risk of complications or interactions with other medication or conditions.
While there can be some side-effects that cause discomfort with the treatment, and dialysis can be a complex problem, we want you to understand that these issues can be mitigated or eliminated with proper care. The best care is often provided by professionals in live-in facilities like ours.
Potential Discomfort With Dialysis
Dialysis is generally well-tolerated, meaning that most people don’t have an enormous number of physical complications or pain associated with the process. However, some seniors and others may experience some discomfort, especially when they first begin treatment.
Potential side effects includes:
- Muscle cramps
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Dizziness
You’ll notice these are also symptoms of dehydration and low blood pressure. Most people learn how to manage these side effects quickly, and they can be drastically reduced with proper care. However, the elderly often need special attention to ensure their needs are met.
Another potential risk is infection at the access site. Dialysis has a number of typical access sites and procedures, and without careful monitoring and placement, there is an opportunity for infection. For seniors who may have limited ability to communicate or recognize discomfort, infection potential must be carefully watched.
The Role Of Skilled Nursing Facilities In Dialysis Treatment
The good news is that these risks and discomfort can be managed and, in some cases, eliminated, with proper care. One of the best places to receive dialysis care is in a skilled nursing facility.
Skilled nursing facilities play an essential role in dialysis care, because unlike outpatient settings, skilled nursing facilities provide 24/7 around-the-clock care to its patients. This care is delivered by licensed nurses and is supervised by a physician.
This level of care provides continuous monitoring of patients before, during, and after treatment that allows us to spot any potential issues, complications, and symptoms. It also allows our staff to monitor patients over time so that if any changes to the treatment need to be made, they can be made rapidly and accurately.
Onsite Dialysis At Haven Health Locations
Haven Health is proud to offer onsite dialysis treatment at our Tucson and Phoenix – Sky Harbor locations. Onsite dialysis helps reduce both the physical and emotional strain of the process by eliminating weekly transportation and other issues.
Call Haven Health Today To Explore How We Can Help Those Who Need Dialysis Treatment
If you’re looking for skilled nursing care and need access to onsite dialysis treatment, think Haven Health. Call today with any questions or to set up a tour of any one of our facilities in Tucson or Sky Harbor, Phoenix, location, both of which proudly offer on-site dialysis treatment.
We’re looking forward to hearing from you and serving you and your family.
Sources:
Dialysis. (2026).
Hemodialysis. (2026).
Arasu, R., et al. (2022). Overview of Hemodialysis Access and Assessment.