Kidney disease is a very common disease among seniors. Research suggests that kidney disease affects over 70% of individuals aged 65 and above. It is important for older individuals to take the necessary steps in managing their kidney disease. The food consumed by seniors has a direct impact on their kidneys. Senior individuals are advised to consume a kidney-friendly diet, regardless of whether they have kidney disease or not, as it may assist in preventing the development of severe kidney disease through the appropriate diet. In-home care services can be helpful for seniors who need help with meal preparation and grocery shopping.
Providers of in-in-home care offer services such as grocery shopping for seniors and meal preparation to ensure they have access to healthy food options. There are ways to slow down the progression of kidney disease in older individuals, which include the following recommendations.
Choose Healthy Foods
A diet rich in vegetables and fruits and low in salt can contribute to maintaining healthier kidneys. The recommended daily sodium intake for older adults is 2,300 mg or less. Reducing sugar intake may have a beneficial effect. According to dietary guidelines, seniors should consume less than 10 percent of their daily calories from added sugars.
An in-home care can prepare nutritionally balanced meals for elderly family members that are both low in salt and sugar. The in-home care may include additional dietary guidelines as directed by the dietician or doctor.
Manage High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure can have detrimental effects on kidney function and efficiency. It is crucial for an aging relative to adhere to their treatment plan in order to maintain healthy blood pressure levels. Reducing salt consumption and adhering to the doctor’s advice on fluid intake may be beneficial.
In-home care can aid in the management of blood pressure by assisting older adults with daily monitoring. Care provider can assist seniors with medication management, including reminders for taking blood pressure medicine. If the senior requires dialysis, elderly care will make sure they attend all scheduled sessions.
Quit Smoking
The act of smoking has negative effects on the blood vessels that supply the kidneys. This condition can lead to nephrosclerosis, a condition in which the kidneys become hardened. According to the National Kidney Foundation, abstaining from smoking is highly beneficial for managing kidney disease.
In-home care can offer support to elderly individuals who smoke and are working towards quitting. In-home care providers can provide support during challenging times when quitting. An in-home care assistance can provide a distraction for seniors who want to smoke by engaging them in an activity or conversation.
Lose Weight
Being overweight increases the likelihood of developing health conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes, which are contributing factors to kidney disease. Consulting with a medical professional or dietician can aid older individuals in creating a weight loss plan that is sustainable for them.
In-home care services can support weight loss efforts by providing nutritious, low-calorie meals and encouraging physical activity through in-home exercises, walks, or transportation to exercise classes for seniors.