Maintaining kidney health as you get older can be crucial for your overall well-being. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) impacts one in 10 people worldwide, with ranging levels of severity. The impacts can be significant on the elderly population.
Older adults make up 50 percent of all nephrology patients – reporting a wide range of kidney diseases. Additionally, almost 40 percent of adults 60 years or older have some degree of CKD, according to the Kidney News.
Thursday is a time for increased awareness on the impacts of chronic kidney disease. It is World Kidney Day, a day aimed at increasing awareness for kidney health, and reducing the frequency and impact of kidney disease.
How Seniors Can Take Control of their Kidney Health
A person can lose up to 90 percent of kidney function before they experience any symptoms, according to the World Kidney Day website. The website also recommends you discuss the possibility of kidney disease with your doctor if you answer “yes” to any of these questions:
- Are you older than 50?
- Is your blood pressure high?
- Do you have diabetes?
- Are you a smoker?
- Are you overweight?
- Do you have a family history of kidney disease?
- Are you of African, Hispanic, Aboriginal or Asian descent?
Prevention
There are factors that can reduce your chances for CKD or help control the disease if you already have it. For instance, a reduction in blood pressure, control of body weight, and a reduction in salt intake can help. Quitting smoking and increasing physical activity can help.
Kidney disease can occur at any age but it is more frequent in seniors. Make sure that you are having a conversation with your doctor and taking some preventative actions if you feel that you may be at risk. Taking some of the simple steps listed above may be enough to prevent the disease or keep it in check. You can keep control of your kidney health.
At Ramp Now, we sell products designed to assist the aging population. We understand that most of our clients may have dialysis three times a week and getting in and out of your home is crucial to making that procedure a success! Our sister website Home Access Products also carries a variety of medical products that can help. If you have any questions, contact us today!
