As people age, the risk of developing any number of health conditions increases, and kidney disease causes in seniors are no exception. Kidney disease is one of the most common and serious health concerns for older adults, because the kidneys naturally lose some of their function with age. Knowing the root causes of kidney disease in seniors is imperative to identifying early symptoms and taking preventive measures.
The Aging Process and Kidney Disease Causes in Seniors
One of the biggest kidney disease causes is simply the aging process itself. As people grow older, their kidneys may lose some of their filtering capacity. The kidneys’ ability to process waste and excess fluid diminishes. This can result in an accumulation of waste products in the blood.
The gradual decline in kidney function is often overlooked because it happens slowly over time, and people may not immediately feel its effects. By the time symptoms are noticeable, kidney disease may be more advanced.
However, this age-related decline can often be managed with proper medical care and lifestyle changes. It’s important for retirees to have regular check-ups and to monitor their kidney function as part of their overall health regimen.
Chronic Conditions and Kidney Disease
Chronic conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes are two of the most common contributors to kidney disease in seniors. Both conditions place added strain on the kidneys and make them work harder than they should. Over time, the increased workload can damage the kidneys’ delicate filtering system, leading to chronic kidney disease.
High blood pressure can cause the blood vessels in the kidneys to become thickened and narrowed, impairing blood flow and reducing kidney function. Diabetes leads to high blood sugar levels, which can damage the kidneys over time.
This damage to the kidneys can occur silently, often with no immediate symptoms. This is why it’s important for people with these conditions to have regular check-ups to monitor kidney health.
Medication and Kidney Damage
Another common cause of kidney disease in seniors is the use of certain medications. Many golden agers take multiple medications to manage their health conditions, and some of these medications can negatively impact kidney function.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), certain antibiotics and some blood pressure medications are known to be harmful to the kidneys when taken long-term or in high doses.
Residents who are in Independent Living or Assisted Living settings often benefit from having healthcare professionals available to monitor medication use. This can help prevent kidney damage from medications. The care team can assist in making sure medications are being taken correctly and in appropriate dosages.
Dehydration and Kidney Function
Dehydration is another risk factor for kidney disease in seniors. As people age, their sense of thirst diminishes, leading to lower fluid intake. Some people may not drink enough water, which is necessary for maintaining kidney function.
When the body is dehydrated, the kidneys cannot function properly, and the risk of developing kidney stones or urinary tract infections increases. Dehydration can also lead to acute kidney injury, which, if left untreated, may progress to chronic kidney disease.
In Assisted Living communities, hydration is often a priority. Caregivers make sure that residents are drinking enough fluids throughout the day, and special efforts are made for those who may have difficulty keeping track of their water intake.
Many communities also offer services and amenities like nutrition counseling and meal planning. This helps residents maintain optimal hydration and kidney health.
Genetics and Kidney Disease
Some people may be more genetically predisposed to developing kidney disease. Family history plays a big part in kidney health, and those with a family history of kidney disease may be at a higher risk.
Additionally, certain genetic conditions like polycystic kidney disease can affect kidney function over time. Though these conditions are less common, they can lead to severe kidney damage if not properly managed.
Kidney Disease Prevention and Management in Senior Living
Managing kidney disease in seniors involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medication and monitoring. Those living in retirement communities often have the advantage of receiving consistent, personalized care.
These communities provide a safe and supportive environment where residents can receive the attention they need to manage kidney disease and other health conditions.
In these settings, retirees can participate in activities and events designed to promote overall health and wellness, such as low-impact exercise programs, nutritional workshops and health education sessions. These activities help participants stay physically active, maintain a healthy weight and manage chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, all of which can contribute to kidney health.
Many communities provide access to medical teams who are trained to monitor kidney function and offer advice on medication management. This can help reduce the risk of kidney complications and improve quality of life.
The Support We Offer for Kidney Health in Senior Living
In our community, we know how vital kidney health is to the overall well-being of our residents. For our residents living with or at risk for kidney disease, we provide the support they need to manage their health effectively.
Our services are designed to offer care that includes regular health assessments, assistance with medication management and personalized wellness programs. Our team is dedicated to helping golden agers live a fulfilling life while managing chronic conditions like kidney disease.
Call us at 817-386-8377 or use our online form to reach out today.
