Abstract: Maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) is one of the important measures for treatment and longer survival of the patients with end-stage renal disease. Cognitive impairment (CI) is a common complication of MHD patients. Studies have revealed that CI causes decreased activities of daily living (ADL) in MHD patients. However, CI with decreased ADL in MHD patients are usually neglected by most people. This article analyzes the current status of CI and ADL in MHD patients based on the reports in domestic and foreign literature, and summarizes the pathogenesis of CI and its impact on ADL and the managements to increase ADL abilities in MHD patients.

Key words: Renal dialysis, Cognitive impairment, Daily living activities