March is National Kidney Month and now is the perfect time for seniors to focus on improving their kidney health. When seniors make good lifestyle choices and work with their doctor they may be able to prevent kidney disease, or improve their kidney health if they have kidney disease.
Kidney disease is very common in seniors, as age is one of the primary risk factors. According to doctors nearly 50% of seniors who are over 75 have kidney disease. If your senior parent has kidney disease elder care can help them continue living independently. With the support of an elder care provider seniors often can remain in their homes as they get older even if they have chronic medical problems like kidney disease.
Drink More Water
Drinking water is one of the easiest things seniors can do to protect their kidneys. Seniors should be drinking at least 8 glasses of water every day. During the summer or if they live in a warm climate seniors may need even more water than that. Water helps the kidneys flush out toxins and function the way they should. Drinking water can also help seniors avoid UTIs.
Eat a Low Sodium Diet
Seniors that are worried about kidney disease should be eating a low sodium diet that focuses on flavor instead of salt. This means seniors shouldn’t be adding a lot of salt to their food, but it also means that seniors should be eating unprocessed foods that don’t have a lot of preservatives. Most processed foods have high amounts of sodium because salt is used as a preservative. Seniors who have trouble cooking healthy food can get help with cooking from an elder care provider.
Control Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is a leading cause of kidney damage. Seniors should monitor their blood pressure regularly and take steps to keep it within a healthy range. This includes adopting a low-sodium diet, regular exercise, and, if necessary, taking prescribed medications as directed by a healthcare professional.
Exercise Regularly
Engaging in regular physical activity benefits overall health, including kidney function. Exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, control blood pressure, and improve cardiovascular health – all of which contribute to good kidney health. Seniors should consult with their healthcare providers to determine a suitable exercise routine based on their individual health status.
Manage Diabetes and Chronic Conditions
Seniors with diabetes and other chronic health conditions have a higher risk of kidney problems. It's crucial to manage blood sugar levels effectively through a combination of medication, a healthy diet, and regular monitoring. Regular check-ups with healthcare providers can help detect and address any diabetes-related kidney issues early on.
Avoid Over-the-Counter Medications
Some popular over-the-counter medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can cause kidney damage over time or if they are used excessively. Seniors should use over-the-counter pain relievers sparingly and as directed.
Get Regular Check-ups
Regular health check-ups are essential for seniors to monitor kidney function and detect any potential issues early on. Blood and urine tests can provide valuable information about the kidneys' health. Seniors should work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a personalized health plan that includes regular screenings and assessments.
