Social Support and Companionship Among People With End-Stage Renal Disease

Abstract

The onset of end-stage renal disease brings considerable change to personal relationships. While a broad spectrum of social support has been studied in-depth, the particular facet of companionship among people with end-stage renal disease remains understudied. Both psychosocial aspects appear to be essential for people who manage their illness through hemodialysis treatment. This study utilized mixed methods to collect data. Qualitative data helped the researchers investigate the meaning of companionship and social support as experienced by the participants describing their interpretation of the phenomenon. Quantitative data provided level of support and adjustment to treatment as it regard to various aspects of life such as physical, social, family life, work, emotional, spiritual, and attendance of social events. The meaning of companionship after initiating hemodialysis was associated with increased family support and enhanced faith. Levels of adjustment and social support after beginning hemodialysis were associated with diminished social life, physical decline, and emotional distress.