Adaptation Process After Kidney Transplantation in Older Adult Recipients: Applied Grounded Theory

Abstract

Despite the increase in older adults receiving kidney transplantation (KT), little is known about their experience and adaptation process after KT. The current study aimed to explore the process of adaptation after KT in older adult recipients using a qualitative design and grounded theory methodology. Sixteen recipients who had KT at age ≥60 years and received follow-up care were recruited at a university hospital in South Korea. Data were collected from July to December 2017 through in-depth interviews with individual participants. The core theme of the adaptation process after KT in older adult recipients was A Journey of Straining to Save the Last Lifeline . The adaptation process comprised three stages: confusion, depression, and compromise. Tailored interventions based on the in-depth understanding of the adaptation process found in the current study are needed to improve adaptation after KT in older adult recipients. [ Research in Gerontological Nursing, 16 (4), 183–193.]