Describing the relationship between social capital, social networks, and social support experiences and well-being in end-stage chronic kidney failure patients receiving hemodialysis treatment

Aim: The aim of this study is to describe the relationship between health, well-being and the concepts of social capital, social networks, and social support experiences of patients of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) receiving hemodialysis treatment by focusing on these concepts. Material and Methods: This research is conducted using qualitative phenomenological model. The research is carried out with 9 participants receiving hemodialysis treatment and that are reached from online groups of chronic kidney patients. In the light of the literature, semi-structured interview form is applied with in-depth interview technique. The data is coded using MAXQDA 2020 and analyzed via thematic analysis. Results: It is observed that ESRD patients face many challenging factors in terms of physical, psychological and social aspects. In the interviews, it is understood that emotional social support contributes to increase the well-being of ESRD patients during the painful hemodialysis treatment process. It is seen that the exchange of information related to the disease and the treatment process is a powerful resource that affects the well-being of ESRD patients. It is seen that instrumental social support, including financial and tangible practical supports, stands out as a critical resource that affects the well-being of ESRD patients. It is determined that all these resources are activated by social connections and they point to the potential of social capital. Conclusion: ESRD patients need the effectiveness of social resources during the hemodialysis process, which makes their lives difficult. The effectiveness of social resources is hidden in the social environment in which they live and it gains functionality through social relations. It is stated that ESRD patients reach support types they receive via family, friends, neighbors, healthcare professionals, other patients, and online networks. In addition to this, it emerges that the health system, social policies, employment, and belief are also important supportive mechanisms that increase the well-being of patients. Key words: Social capital, social networks, social support, end-stage renal disease hemodialysis treatment, medical social work