Psychic reactions to long-term hemodialysis: evaluation in the elderly by means of the Draw-A-Person Test.

Twelve patients who attended a daytime session in a hemodialysis unit were studied. Most were older than patients whose adaptation has been the subject of previous reports. Problems of life satisfaction for these elderly patients often are different from those for younger persons. Most of the group showed maladaptive reactions which interfered with their activities when away from the unit. The Draw-A-Person test was a useful tool in pinpointing these reactions, which can lead to feelings of helplessness and depression. Factors which encourage good adaptation to long-term hemodialysis are discussed.