Feasibility of long-term intradialytic exercise for older patients receiving hemodialysis: a retrospective single-center study

Abstract

Purpose: Decreased physical function and physical activity are associated with adverse outcomes among patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD). Although intradialytic exercise (IDEx) can help improve physical function, few studies have evaluated whether long-term IDEx could improve physical function or physical activity in older HD patients. This study aimed to investigate the effects of intradialytic exercise (IDEx) on physical function and physical activity in older HD patients over a 24-month period.

Methods: This retrospective study included clinically stable Japanese HD patients (aged ≥ 60 years) who visited our outpatient clinic. The patients were categorized into the IDEx (underwent IDEx) and non-IDEx (did not undergo IDEx) groups. The IDEx group underwent a 30-40 min low-intensity resistance training for three times/week during the HD period. Baseline, 12-month, and 24-month follow-up assessments were conducted to assess patient characteristics, physical function, and physical activity. Results were compared using generalized estimating equations.

Results: The study included 57 patients with complete follow-up data. Baseline, 12-month, and 24-month follow-up assessments revealed no significant inter-group differences concerning physical function, physical activity, and other measurements.

Conclusion: IDEx was shown to have limited effect on physical function and physical activity among older HD patients in a clinical setting. Future studies are needed to re-evaluate IDEx programs in HD patients by incorporating exercises performed before and after the HD session.

Keywords: Hemodialysis; Intradialytic exercise; Older patients; Physical activity; Physical function.