What Does Kidney Failure Look Like for Seniors?

Throughout their entire lives, seniors rely on their kidneys to filter waste from their blood and help them manage fluid regulation in their bodies. Over time, though, chronic health issues and damage to the kidneys cause kidney disease. When that progresses, the kidneys can fail. Understanding more about kidney function and what happens during kidney failure helps family caregivers do more to help the seniors they love. Home care providers can be a huge help in managing kidney issues.

Home Care Ridgewood, NJ – What Does Kidney Failure Look Like for Seniors?

When Kidneys Shut Down

Kidneys shut down, or fail, when kidney disease and damage keep them from functioning properly. Their job is to remove waste from the blood and manage fluid levels in the body. That waste and excess fluid get sent to the bladder, which then expels urine from the body. When kidneys stop functioning, fluid, electrolytes, and waste products build up in seniors’ bodies, which can be fatal without intervention.

Causes of Kidney Failure

Kidney failure can happen to people of all ages, especially if their kidneys become damaged. For seniors, some of the leading causes of kidney failure can include high blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. When seniors smoke a lot, eat too much protein, or are obese, kidney damage is even more likely. Some of these conditions can be managed to help prevent kidney failure. Elder care providers can work with seniors to develop routines that mesh with the recommendations from their doctors.

Signs Kidneys Might Be Failing

How severe the symptoms of kidney failure are depends on the type of damage the kidneys experience and the stage of kidney disease seniors are in. Most people with kidney issues experience fatigue, weakness, and swelling in their feet and ankles. They may also experience nausea, loss of appetite, and have trouble sleeping. As the kidneys start to fail, these symptoms and others are likely to get worse. Seniors might have trouble breathing, stop engaging in their favorite activities, and have trouble taking care of themselves.

Preventing Bigger Kidney Trouble

The main goal once seniors realize they have kidney disease or any issues with their kidneys is to prevent bigger kidney trouble. While there is no cure for kidney damage, seniors can do what they can to reduce unnecessary strain on their kidneys. Drinking just enough water and being careful with over-the-counter medications are some of the first steps that seniors might need to take.

Lifestyle Changes Make a Difference

Lifestyle changes are also important when seniors want to avoid kidney failure. Getting plenty of sleep helps seniors get the rest they need to keep their bodies functioning well. Paying attention to their diets and eating more fruits and vegetables can help. Eating lean proteins in moderation helps seniors to maintain their strength, but doesn’t overload the kidneys as much as a higher protein diet does. Home care providers can help seniors to take the recommendations from their doctors and develop routines that fit.

Many seniors live a long time with kidney disease. Kidney failure isn’t necessarily something that they have to face right away, especially with the help of home care providers in managing daily routines.

If you or a senior family member is considering hiring Home Care Services in Ridgewood, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Caring Solutions Home Care LLC.

Providing in-home senior care, servicing Bergen & Passaic Counties. Call today at (973) 427-3553.