Written by Danielle Reay

Dealing with kidney disease can be tough, no doubt about it! 

But whether you’re a senior managing kidney disease yourself or a compassionate caregiver looking after a loved one, these tips will help you get through the complexities of kidney disease and dialysis. From managing what you eat to staying active and engaged, following these suggestions will empower you on your journey toward optimal health and happiness.

TIP 1: Manage Pre-existing Conditions

The most important thing senior citizens can do to prevent kidney disease is to manage their heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. A condition like this is often what causes kidney disease in the elderly, so when patients keep these conditions under control they are less likely to develop kidney disease. 

A few ways to do this include:

• Scheduling Regular Appointments: Consistently attending appointments with doctors and specialists allows them to regularly monitor and assess pre-existing conditions. These routine check-ups are an opportunity to detect any changes in health status before the changes become serious.

• Adherence to Prescribed Medications: Taking medications as recommended by healthcare professionals is crucial for managing pre-existing conditions effectively. Consistent and appropriate medication usage can stabilize these conditions and reduce the risk of kidney disease.

• Following Customized Diet and Exercise Plans: Healthcare providers can create a personalized diet and exercise plan that is tailored to your individual health needs. By following these plans, seniors can maintain a healthy weight, control blood pressure, and manage diabetes, contributing to better overall health.

• Monitoring Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure Levels: Regularly testing blood sugar and blood pressure levels helps individuals stay informed about their health status. This proactive approach enables early detection of any changes or potential issues, allowing for quick intervention and preventive measures.

Seeking guidance from doctors and healthcare providers who specialize in these conditions can offer valuable insights into managing them. Follow any and all advice from your healthcare specialists.

TIP 2: Maintain a Healthy Body Weight

Maintaining a healthy body weight is key to managing kidney disease. Being overweight forces the kidneys to work harder and causes further damage. Make whatever lifestyle changes you need to make to manage your healthy weight or to lose weight if necessary. 

Here are some helpful tips:

• Follow a Kidney Diet: Work with healthcare professionals to develop a meal plan that includes foods good for kidneys. A balanced diet that is rich in nutrients and low in sodium, phosphorus, and potassium allows for optimal kidney health while avoiding unnecessary weight gain.

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids is proven to help maintain a healthy weight. It also helps cleanse your kidneys of wastes and toxins, keeping them healthy. When it comes to kidney disease, water is your best bet.

• Stay Active: Regular, low-impact exercise is a must in weight control. For seniors with limited mobility that can be a challenge, but a doctor can help you find appropriate physical activities. 

Here are some safe and effective exercises for seniors:

• Walking – Seniors can walk outdoors, on a treadmill, or even around the house or a local mall.
• Chair Exercises – Seated exercises help seniors with limited mobility or balance issues. 
• Water Aerobics – Water exercises provide resistance and support, making them gentle on sore joints. They also improve heart health, strength, and flexibility.
• Cycling: Stationary bikes can be used indoors or outdoors to provide a low-impact cardio workout for seniors. Non-stationary tricycles take some of the stress off your joints by providing more stability. They also provide an improved sense of balance for those who still want to ride but struggle with balance in their later years.

Your kidneys will function at their best when you maintain a healthy weight. You’ll also feel better as you eat right, hydrate, and get daily exercise.

TIP 3: Avoid Unhealthy Habits

Avoiding bad habits is just as important as developing good ones when it comes to kidney health. So keep doing good things for kidneys and do less of these no-so-good things:

• Quit Smoking: If you smoke, consider quitting. Smoking damages blood vessels and slows blood flow to your kidneys, making kidney disease worse. Talk to your doctor about quitting and get the help and support you need to be successful. 

• Drink Less Alcohol: Too much alcohol can increase blood pressure and decrease liver function. That makes the kidneys’ job harder. So drink in moderation or avoid alcohol altogether.

• Avoid Over-the-Counter Painkillers: Excessive use of non-prescription painkillers, like ibuprofen and aspirin, can harm the kidneys. Always follow the recommended dosage and consult your doctor if you have concerns.

Eliminating bad habits are great for not only your kidneys but your overall health as well.

TIP 4: Prioritize Mental and Emotional Health

Dealing with kidney disease can be stressful and scary. Pay special attention to your mental well-being during this time so you can be physically and emotionally healthy.

Here are some ideas to help you cope:

• Seek Professional Help: Any feelings you experience while dealing with kidney disease are natural. But if feelings of depression or anxiety start to overwhelm you, seek support from mental health professionals or counselors.

• Educate Yourself: Knowledge is power. Learn about kidney disease and dialysis to better understand your condition and actively participate in your care. 

• Manage Stress: Find ways to manage stress like meditation or deep-breathing exercises.

• Get Enough Rest: Be sure to get enough sleep at night and rest during the day. Exhaustion can add to feelings of anxiety and depression.

• Celebrate Your Progress: Recognize and celebrate the positive changes and improvements in your health. You are strong and resilient! Share your successes, no matter how small, with your loved ones.

Your emotional health is just as important as your physical health, especially when dealing with an illness. Be sure to rest and relax and look to professionals for help when you need it.

TIP 5: Build a Support Network

Coping with kidney disease can feel isolating but it’s important to know that you’re not alone. Look to friends, family, support groups, and professionals to help you navigate this disease.

Take these steps to build a meaningful support network:

• Reach Out: Don’t hesitate to seek physical and emotional support from loved ones and friends. Find support groups that specialize in kidney disease and dialysis to connect with people who know how you feel.

• Communicate with Your Healthcare Team: Let your doctors know of any changes in your health and ask questions to ease your concerns. Open communication is key for effective care management and will give you peace of mind.

• Seek Financial Assistance: If the cost of your care becomes unmanageable, look for financial assistance. Many organizations offer relief to eligible patients dealing with kidney disease.

With a support network in place, you’ll be confident that you can face any challenge or changes that come with your illness.

TIP 6: Seek Professional Help

Local services that specialize in elderly kidney disease treatment will be a vital resource, especially if you’re in the advanced stages of kidney disease. From medical treatment to transportation and companionship, these groups are well-equipped to meet your unique needs.

Look to services like these to help you maintain your independence and health in the face of kidney disease:

• Dialysis Locations and Renal Care: If you need dialysis you need to become familiar with dialysis locations near you. Dialysis treatment is available all over the United States, including dialysis services in Utah. Talk with your doctor and insurance provider to find the right treatment center for you.

• Transportation Services: Getting to and from dialysis centers can be difficult for seniors who need support with transportation. Dialysis transportation services are available through organizations like in-home care services. They provide rides to and from dialysis appointments to make sure you arrive safely and on time.

• Kidney Failure Caregiver: In-home caregivers are a blessing, especially for those suffering from kidney failure. They offer a variety of services to seniors who can no longer manage their disease on their own. 

Their many services include: 

• Personal Care Services – Help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and eating.
• Homemaking Services – Assistance with meal prep, housekeeping, and shopping.
• Companion Services – In-person emotional support and care, including accompanying seniors to appointments and recreational activities.

These care services for seniors give peace of mind to both the elderly and their families. They also promote independence, improve quality of life, and ensure that seniors can comfortably and safely deal with kidney disease in their own homes. 

When seniors and caregivers prioritize physical and mental health and build a network of loved ones and capable professionals they can continue to live fulfilling lives even while coping with kidney disease.

At-Home Care Services for Independence and Support

In the face of kidney failure, there’s hope and help available. With medical advancements and lifestyle changes, many seniors can lead fulfilling lives even with kidney disease. Stay positive and make informed decisions as you move forward.

To maintain independence and a great quality of life, consider at-home care services like transportation from Suzy’s Senior Services. Our compassionate team is here to support you and your loved one, ensuring they can enjoy their favorite activities, attend medical appointments, and stay connected to their community. Contact us today at 801-540-2077 to learn more.

You’re not alone in this journey. Together, with caregivers, family, and friends, we can face kidney failure with optimism and determination. Help your senior loved one embrace life to the fullest and cherish every moment of their golden years. Hope thrives when we support each other toward a brighter and healthier future.

I’ve been so impressed!

“Suzy’s transport staff are kind, helpful, and prompt drivers. Suzy’s Senior Services provides wonderful transportation services that are badly needed in Northern Utah. We have rural areas that are not served by public transportation, and the one-on-one assistance helps customers feel safe and attended to. This individualized service is so meaningful to those unable to drive themselves. Her drivers are friendly and conscientious, and the customers love and trust their drivers.”

– A. Richman, SSW
Case Manager, Advocates for Independence

For transportation services for seniors near Weber County, call us at 801-540-2077 to learn more.