After the age of 65, maintaining healthy kidneys becomes increasingly important. Seniors are at risk for chronic kidney disease, which can manifest in many ways, ranging from fatigue to frequent urination. Here are a few ways seniors can maintain kidney health as they age.
1. Eat a Healthy Diet
A balanced diet helps seniors keep their kidneys healthy. Seniors should try to drink eight glasses of water a day, avoid foods that are high in salt, and reduce fat intake. Foods that are rich in potassium and calcium are good for kidney health. Seniors can also add fish, egg whites, apples, and olive oil to their diets to reduce their chances of kidney disease.
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2. Get Exercise
Kidney disease is often caused by high blood pressure. The blood vessels in the kidneys can be damaged by high blood pressure, which may lead to kidney failure. Regular exercise can help seniors ward off high blood pressure. There are plenty of exercise options available for seniors with different mobility levels.
Seniors with arthritis or joint pain may benefit from water aerobics or yoga. For seniors with greater mobility, cardiovascular exercise can reduce blood pressure. Options include walking, swimming, Pilates, gardening, and completing chores.
3. Monitor Health Regularly
To boost kidney health, it’s important for seniors to regularly monitor their health. They should consider annual screenings for different kidney-related health risks. Seniors with diabetes are at risk for kidney failure, and they should try to maintain appropriate blood sugar levels. Seniors with high blood pressure should discuss antihypertensive drugs with their doctors. Keep an eye on your loved one’s health and report any changes to his or her doctor.
For some families, caring for a senior loved one can be overwhelming at times. Luckily, they can rely on professional respite care. Calgary, Alberta, Home Care Assistance is a trusted name in respite and hourly care. Our caregivers are available around the clock to assist seniors with bathing, transportation, medication reminders, exercise, and much more, allowing families the time they need to focus on other important responsibilities or just take a break.
4. Quit Smoking
For seniors who have been smoking for decades, quitting may not be easy. Smoking can cause high blood pressure, which negatively impacts kidney function. Smoking also slows down the rate at which blood reaches organs, reducing the efficiency of the kidneys.
Seniors who want to quit smoking can do so under the supervision of their doctors. They might find success with nicotine replacement therapies, such as tablets, patches, gum, inhalers, and prescription medication. Seniors who are trying to quit smoking may need strong support systems. They may find attending weekly support groups keeps them on track, or they may prefer the help of friends and family. Whatever method of quitting your loved one chooses, it’s important to support him or her at every step of the process.
If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of homecare services. Calgary Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives. Contact one of our experienced Care Managers today at 403-301-3777 to learn more about our reliable in-home care services.