Age and transplantation

[YollyD_NKF]

Can I be considered for a transplant if I am older and have other health problems?

[marcyc NKF Peer Mentor NKF Ambassador]

My husband was 60 when he got transplanted but the center said living donor only. If you are older and have other issues it doesn't automatically exclude you but there are long wait times for a deceased donor kidney. Best to have your doctor refer you to the transplant center to find out. Best of luck, prayers for you.

[yahoo999uk]

Hi

I was 68 when I got my transplant. It was from a deceased person. I have met people who have had a transplant at the age of 80+. Good luck. Do not give up.

[Drdetroit]

I was 60 when transplanted from a deceased donor after 2 1/2 yrs on dialysis. I've been diabetic for 27 yrs. You still have to go through much testing to get on the transplant list.

[JaneCarter]

Different centers have different guidelines. The best way to find out is the contact centers and ask! They all want to help! Good luck

[SaraEads]

I am under the impression that some centers have 2 levels of kidney donations. The first being pristine organs; the second being organs from older, less healthy donors. You might ask about this at various centers you contact. I have met a kidney transplant recipient who was 85 at the time of transplantation and, according to him, he received a kidney from a deceased second level donor. You might consult the UNOS website for further information.

You refer to other health issues. You might speak to your nephrologist about these issues and the possibilities for transplantation. Or, you might contact the transplant center closest to you about the implications of these health issues and transplantation.

Good luck.