For instance, it depends on your elderly loved one’s age, sex, and what stage of the disease they are in. There has been a lot of research done that helps doctors determine how long a person might live after being diagnosed with kidney disease. However, it is important to remember that everyone is different and doctors might not be able to offer you the exact length of time that your elderly loved one can live with this disease. However, doctors usually can give you a general timeframe.

Kidney Disease Stages

There are 5 stages of kidney disease. However, the third stage is usually broken down into two different stages. Most experts determine stages by measuring a person’s glomerular filtration rate, also known as GFR. This lets them understand how a person’s kidneys are functioning and what stage of kidney disease the patient is in currently.

Stages 1 and 2 – Early Warnings

Typically, a person who has a GFR above 90mL/min is in stage one kidney disease. In addition, people with a GFR of 60-89mL/min fall into stage 2. This is when the person will usually begin noticing minor symptoms. Normally, if kidney disease is caught during stage 1 or 2 there isn’t any significant damage done.

Stages 3, 4, and 5 – Getting Closer to Kidney Failure

A person who has a GFR between 59-30mL/min is classified as having stage 3 kidney disease. Their symptoms become more severe. They might also be facing the risk of end-stage renal disease. When a person nears the end of stage 3, they have only about 15 points to go before reaching stage 5 kidney disease. Unfortunately, after a person is in stage 4 kidney disease, it isn’t long before they are in stage 5.

Life Expectancy Based on Sex

Many studies show the life expectancy for someone with kidney disease varies depending on sex and age. Some studies show a 60-year old man who has stage 1 kidney disease will live about 15 years. However, a 60-year old woman with stage 1 kidney disease has a life expectancy of 18 years. Based on these studies, life expectancy is generally greater for a woman than a man.

Conclusion

It can be difficult taking care of your elderly loved one if they have kidney disease. However, there are resources available and senior care providers who can assist you along the way. Don’t hesitate to ask for help and support if you start feeling overwhelmed.

If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring a Caregiver in Mount Laurel, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Attentive Care Inc. 1-800-493-5660

Sources
Niddk.nih.gov
Cdc.gov

The post Learn About the Stages of Kidney Disease Today appeared first on Attentive Care, Inc..

Home care providers can be the first line of defense in preventing dangerous falls by doing the things described below.

Keeping the Home Free of Clutter
When your aging relative’s home is filled with clutter, like stacks of magazines, shoes left lying in walkways, or items left on the stairs, their chances of falling are increased. Clutter is a serious risk factor for falling because the older adult could trip over it. Clear walkways are free from trip hazards. Home care providers can assist with removing clutter by picking up the house during their visits.

Providing Transportation
You might be wondering how driving your aging relative places could help them to prevent a fall. Well, seeing a doctor for a fall assessment is an important first step in keeping older adults from falling. A doctor can discuss medication changes to prevent dizziness or balance problems, ways to strengthen muscles, and things the senior can do to improve their balance. However, if they cannot get to the appointment, the doctor cannot help them. A home care provider can drive your older family member to the appointment.

Keeping the Home Brightly Lit
When a senior cannot see well, they are more likely to trip over things or misjudge doorways or stairs. Part of helping them to see better at home is to keep the house brightly lit. That means making sure lightbulbs are promptly changed when they blow out. Unfortunately, reaching bulbs in ceiling fixtures can be too difficult for some seniors and even be dangerous since it may involve climbing on a step ladder or chair. A home care provider can change burned out bulbs as soon as they notice them, keeping the house brighter and making it easier for the senior to see.

Help Walking
Sometimes the best way to prevent an older adult from falling is simply to take their arm and offer them some extra support. However, when seniors are alone, there’s no one available to help them walk safely around the house or outside. A home care provider can be the person that helps them move from room to room, get in and out of the bath or shower, and even go for walks around the neighborhood.

If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Senior Care in Voorhees, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Attentive Care Inc. 1-800-493-5660

Sources
Mayoclinic.org
Everydayhealth.com
Cdc.gov

The post How Home Care Can Prevent Dangerous Falls appeared first on Attentive Care, Inc..