Aging and Kidney Disease
It is so important as a caregiver to help our Seniors understand the importance of screenings for optimum health. Kidney Disease can sneak up on us as we age, due to it's slow development over time. So many of our Seniors may be at high risk, but not even realize it until it's too late!
I have included below information about Kidney Disease from The National Kidney Foundation in support of March's National Kidney Month. If you have any questions about your Senior's kidney health, please contact their doctor.
According to recent estimates from researchers at Johns Hopkins University, more than 50 percent of seniors over the age of 75 are believed to have kidney disease. Kidney disease has also been found to be more prevalent in those over the age of 60 when compared to the rest of the general population.
The National Kidney Foundation (NKF) urges everyone over the age of 60 to be screened for kidney disease. NKF recommends annual screening with a simple urine albumin test that checks for protein in the urine-the earliest sign of kidney damage-as well as a blood test for kidney function. In addition to seniors, NKF recommends that members of other high-risk groups, such as those with diabetes, high blood pressure, and/or a family history of kidney failure, also be screened annually.
Kidney Disease Facts:
- Kidney disease kills more people each year than breast or prostate cancer.
- The National Kidney Foundation recommends annual kidney disease screening for anyone over the age of 60.
- Risk factors for kidney disease include: high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney stones, a family history of kidney failure, prolonged use of over-the-counter pain medications, and being over the age of 60.
- More than 37 Million Americans - 1 in 7 adults- have chronic kidney disease and most don't know it.
- Of the over 120,000 Americans on the national organ transplant waitlist, more than 98,000 await a life-saving kidney.
For more info click here: https://www.kidney.org/news/monthly/wkd_aging
Call (614) 468-8187 for a FREE in-home consultation or email jmundwiler@homehelpershomecare.com or visit our website www.homehelpershomecare.com/delaware-oh.
We are here to help and look forward to connecting with your family.
Legal Disclaimer
This blog provides general information and discussions about medicine, health, and related subjects. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately-licensed physician or other healthcare workers.
Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
The views expressed on this blog and website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, practice or other institution with which may have been mentioned or linked to in the article.
