Quality of Life, Psychosocial Adjustment, and Depression in Dialysis Patients and Their Spouses

We investigated parameters of the quality of life in chronic dialysis patients and relations with their spouses, children, and friends. We used a specialised inventory including questions on family relationships, work, sexual relationships, use of free time, use of psychotropic medication, and various changes in the way of life in general, as well as demographical data. A short form of the same inventory was completed by spouses. Participants and their spouses completed Beck’s Depression Inventory (BDI). Our sample consisted of 37 patients and 20 spouses, 57 adult individuals in total. Where possible we employed personality tests, such as the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI), and semistructured interviews. The results indicated high depression rates and positive correlation in BDI scores between subjects and their spouses. An increased amount of free time was observed in the patient being spent doing hobbies, travelling, and with friends. It was further observed that the time spent with family members as well as watching television was significantly decreased. Emphasis was also provided by subjects regarding the quality of medical equipment, medical expertise, and the need for improved human contact.