Choosing No Dialysis
In some cases, when your kidneys fail, you may choose not to have dialysis or a kidney transplant, but to do medical care without dialysis. This means that you will let nature take its course. Most religions do not think of this choice as suicide, even if you decide to stop dialysis after you start treatment.
Studies find that for some older people who are quite ill, dialysis does not extend life any more than good medical care without dialysis. Medical care without dialysis for kidney failure uses active palliative care to help you feel your best until natural death occurs. Palliative means “to cloak with care.” You will have clinic visits, take medications, and see a dietitian and social worker. The VA is a leader in palliative care and has many support services to help you. Palliative care is open to all veterans who are enrolled at the VA.