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A Cross-Sectional Study Examining the Functional Independence of Elderly Individuals With a Functioning Kidney Transplant

Background Cross-sectional studies of patients dependent on dialysis show that they have a high need for help with routine daily activities. In many cases, individuals who undergo kidney transplantation have previously been treated with dialysis for a significant period of time, thus many of the characteristics may be similar. The purpose of this study was to estimate the rate of functional disability in a cross-sectional population of older patients with a functioning kidney transplant. Methods Kidney transplant patients, aged 65 years or more, were approached to participate. Patients were interviewed to ascertain current living situation, employment status, and 1-year fall history. Functional assessments included the Barthel Index, the Lawton-Brody Scale, the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and dynamometer handgrip strength. Results Eighty-two patients (71%) agreed to participate. Over half (54%) reported being disabled or requiring assistance for at least one daily-living activity, with housekeeping, grocery shopping, and laundry being the activities most commonly affected. Most patients had markedly impaired TUG and handgrip tests, and 21% recalled having fallen more than once in the past year. Limitations We used a single-center, cross-sectional study design. Conclusions These results demonstrate a high prevalence of functional dependence, unintentional falls, and significant morbidity associated with decreased muscle strength in the older kidney transplant population.