The Effect of Benson's Relaxation Technique on Anxiety, Depression and Sleep Quality of Elderly Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis

Abstract

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the most important cause of morbidity and mortality among elderly. Hemodialysis is the most commonly applied method for treatment, and is accompanied by a high incidence of psychological problems such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance, which are having a negative impact on one’s life. Benson’s relaxation technique (BRT) is an effective technique used to reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and enhance sleep quality in elderly patients undergoing hemodialysis. Aim: determine the effect of Benson's relaxation technique on anxiety, depression, and sleep quality among elderly patients undergoing hemodialysis. Design: Quasi- experimental, pre and post intervention design was used. Setting: The study was carried out in the hemodialysis unit affiliated to Mansoura University Hospital, Mansoura, Egypt. Subjects: A purposive convenience sample of 92 elderly patients scheduled for maintenance hemodialysis. Tools: Five tools were used: interview schedule-mini-mental state examination (MMSE) - study subject's relaxation technique knowledge-hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS) and Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI). Results: The age of the studied subjects ranged from 60 to 92 years with mean ± SD = 66.256± 6.78 years, 70.9% are males, all mean total scores of hospital anxiety scale, depression scale, and Pittsburgh sleep quality index for elderly patients  improved significantly after applying Benson's relaxation technique. Conclusion: Benson’s relaxation technique (BRT) is an effective technique to reduces level of anxiety, depression, and improve sleep quality in elderly patients undergoing hemodialysis. Recommendation: Hospitals are recommended to use the Benson's relaxation technique for the management of anxiety, depression and sleep disturbance associated with hemodialysis for elderly patients.