Quality of life

A discussion of the effect of dialysis on quality of life ( QOL) should be included in the decision- making process for undertaking dialysis treatment. The discussion should include effect on physical function, burden of treatment, and effect on family and social life. This is best accomplished by a multidisciplinary team of appropriate health professionals. Age alone should not be interpreted as being predictive of poorer QOL. Poorer physical and mental health should be considered predictive of poorer QOL on dialysis. No single QOL measure should be used to recommend acceptance or denial of dialysis. Final submission: August 2009.