Living with the Machine: The Lived Experience of Young Adults on Hemodialysis

This study explored the lived experiences of young adults undergoing hemodialysis in Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines. Anchored on Husserlian Descriptive Phenomenology, the study employed a qualitative phenomenological research design to understand the essence of “living with the machine” from the perspectives of young adults with chronic kidney disease or end-stage renal disease. Eight young adults aged 19 to 25 who had undergone maintenance hemodialysis for at least one year participated in the study. Data were gathered through a researcher-made semi-structured interview guide, validated by qualitative research specialists and healthcare professionals, and analyzed using Colaizzi’s phenomenological method. The findings revealed that hemodialysis was experienced not only as a medical treatment but as a whole-person condition affecting the body, emotions, relationships, spirituality, identity, and daily life. Participants reported fatigue, pain, bodily weakness, disrupted school and work roles, fear, confusion, anxiety, and dependence on treatment routines. Despite these challenges, they developed coping strategies through self-care, discipline, family and peer support, healthcare guidance, faith, prayer, hope, gratitude, and resilience. The study concluded that young adults undergoing hemodialysis experience suffering, adjustment, resilience, and hope while needing responsive, accessible, holistic, and patient-centered care. Recommendations included flexible dialysis schedules, comfortable treatment spaces, peer support, mental health check-ins, family education, financial subsidies, public awareness campaigns, and future intervention-based studies. The study supports SDG 3, Good Health and Well-Being, and SDG 10, Reduced Inequalities, by emphasizing equitable access to holistic renal care and psychosocial support. Its sustainability impact lies in strengthening patient-centered healthcare services, family and community support systems, and policy responses for young adults managing long-term hemodialysis in resource-limited settings.