Person-Centered Care for Older Adults With Kidney Disease: Core Curriculum 2019

Abstract

This Core Curriculum article models a person-centered approach to care for older adults with kidney disease. We provide background information on the principles of person-centered care and outline ways in which this approach contrasts with the more disease-based approaches that dominate current medical education and practice. Using hypothetical cases, we discuss 3 clinical scenarios that arise commonly when caring for older adults with kidney disease: (1) a moderate reduction in estimated glomerular filtration rate, (2) new-onset nephrotic-range proteinuria, and (3) the prospect of starting dialysis. For each scenario, we summarize relevant available evidence and model what a person-centered approach might look like. In discussing each scenario, we highlight: (1) the considerable heterogeneity in clinical presentation, circumstances, priorities, and values that exist among older adults with kidney disease; (2) the importance of interpreting available evidence and clinical practice guidelines in the context of what is relevant to each patient; (3) methods for grounding discussions about care and treatment options in the realities of each patient's situation and what is most meaningful to them; and (4) the importance of setting aside one's own biases and practice style to ensure that patients’ own values and goals guide their care.