In the Social Domain, the sociodemographics that were moderately correlated were age, educational attainment, occupational status, and household income. These four factors had a stronger relationship to social quality of life (QoL) compared to the other variables, which showed only weak correlations.
These factors may contribute to stronger social well-being due to their influence on access to support networks, communication skills, and opportunities for social participation. For instance, higher education can enhance interpersonal abilities, employment fosters daily interaction and structure, and sufficient income allows for greater engagement in community or family activities. While not significantly influential on their own, these factors collectively help shape more stable and supportive social environments, which are crucial for individuals undergoing long-term treatment.
Normalize intimacy concerns with your care provider.
Openly discussing sexual health with your healthcare provider allows for proper management of issues like fatigue, libido changes, or body image concerns (Finkelstein et al., 2008).
Rebuild intimacy through non-sexual affection.
Hugging, touching, cuddling, and sharing personal time are vital in maintaining a sense of closeness during physically difficult times.
Engage in counseling as a couple.
Therapy with your partner can help navigate feelings of inadequacy, communication barriers, or shifting roles due to illness.
Focus on emotional intimacy.
Emotional closeness—through open communication and shared vulnerability—can help maintain a satisfying sex life even when physical intimacy changes.
Educational Attainment-Based Interventions
Use educational tools on sexual health with chronic illness.
Resources like the NKF's sexual health brochures or online videos can provide non-judgmental education for both patient and partner.
Read or listen to books on intimacy and chronic illness.
Find guides written for couples managing medical challenges to foster mutual understanding and healing.
Household Income-Based Interventions
Create low-cost date nights at home.
Light a candle, cook a simple meal, and engage in meaningful conversation or shared hobbies to build intimacy.
Explore free sexual wellness webinars or counseling.
Some clinics or nonprofits offer free services that address sexual concerns in chronic illness.
Occupational Status-Based Interventions
Use time off to nurture your relationship.
If you're on medical leave or reduced hours, spend part of that time reconnecting with your partner through shared goals or creative bonding.
Schedule intimacy when energy is highest.
Plan intimate moments for times when you feel less fatigued—often mornings or after rest days between dialysis sessions.
References
Finkelstein, F. O., Shirani, S., Wuerth, D., & Finkelstein, S. H. (2008). Therapy insight: Sexual dysfunction in patients with chronic kidney disease. Nature Clinical Practice Nephrology, 4(4), 200–209. https://doi.org/10.1038/ncpneph0776
