Management of chronic kidney disease in the elderly

B L Ng1, M Anpalahan

  • 1Department of Geriatric Medicine General Medicine Renal Medicine Metabolic Bone Disorder Clinic, Western Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.

Internal Medicine Journal
|November 15, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Managing chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the elderly presents unique challenges. This review offers a framework for diagnosing and treating older adults with CKD, considering age-related factors.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Geriatrics

Background:

  • Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are highly prevalent in the elderly population.
  • Current evidence-based management of CKD often overlooks age-specific factors crucial for elderly patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current evidence on diagnosing and managing CKD in the elderly.
  • To provide a framework for addressing the unique challenges of CKD in older adults.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on CKD in the elderly.
  • Focus on age-related physiological changes in the renal system.
  • Consideration of comorbidities, functional status, and polypharmacy in management.

Main Results:

  • Elderly CKD patients often have multiple comorbidities and functional impairments not fully addressed by current guidelines.
  • Age-related physiological changes impact renal function assessment and management strategies.
  • Quality of life and functional outcomes are critical considerations for this demographic.

Conclusions:

  • A tailored approach is necessary for diagnosing and managing CKD in the elderly.
  • Future research should incorporate age-specific variables and outcomes.
  • Improved frameworks are needed to optimize care for elderly CKD patients.

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