Patients with advanced age, significant comorbidities and poor functional status may not gain a survival benefit with dialysis when compared with being managed conservatively.

MND is a group of neurodegenerative disorders best managed using a multidisciplinary approach, with the general practitioner as an integral part of the team.

For patients with motor neuron disease, the final 12 months of life can be a tumultuous period, with rapid losses in function and independence, regular contact with the health system and carer stress.