The renal system, responsible for filtering waste and maintaining fluid balance, undergoes structural and functional modifications with advancing age. These transformations include a decrease in kidney size, reduced blood flow to the kidneys, and a decline in the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), the measure of kidney function. Nephrons, the functional units of the kidney, decrease in number and efficiency. These alterations can impact the kidneys’ ability to filter waste products effectively, regulate electrolytes, and maintain acid-base balance.
Understanding the impact of aging on renal function is crucial for maintaining overall health in older adults. Early detection and management of age-related kidney decline can prevent complications such as fluid imbalances, electrolyte disturbances, and the progression to chronic kidney disease. This awareness allows for appropriate adjustments in medication dosages and lifestyle modifications to support kidney health and improve quality of life. Historically, the impact of aging on the kidneys was often overlooked, but with increasing lifespan, research and clinical attention to this area have grown significantly.