Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is common among older adults, and many people living with it manage well at home with the right routines. For people on dialysis, life can revolve around treatment schedules, diet restrictions, and fatigue. Thoughtful kidney disease home care helps your loved one follow the treatment plan while keeping as much normal life as possible.
Quick answer: Kidney disease home care focuses on following diet and fluid guidelines, taking medications as prescribed, keeping appointments and dialysis sessions, managing fatigue, protecting the dialysis access site, and watching for warning signs. In-home support can help with meals, transportation, and daily tasks, especially on dialysis days.
Understanding Kidney Disease
Healthy kidneys filter waste and extra fluid from the blood. With CKD, they gradually lose function. Many people manage earlier stages with medication and diet; in later stages, some need dialysis or a transplant. Diabetes and high blood pressure are common causes, so managing those conditions matters. Our chronic condition care guide covers general strategies.
Following the Kidney-Friendly Diet
The care team or a renal dietitian may recommend limits on:
- Sodium, to control blood pressure and fluid
- Potassium, found in foods like bananas, potatoes, and tomatoes
- Phosphorus, found in dairy, processed foods, and dark sodas
- Protein, which may be limited or increased depending on stage and dialysis
- Fluids, especially for people on dialysis
These diets can be complicated. A caregiver who shops and cooks with the guidelines in mind makes them much easier to follow. Always follow the dietitian’s specific plan.
Medications
People with kidney disease often take many medications, and some over-the-counter drugs can harm the kidneys. Keep an updated list, take medications as prescribed, and check with the doctor or pharmacist before using any new medicine or supplement. See medication management tips.
Kidney Disease Home Care on Dialysis Days
- Transportation: reliable rides to and from dialysis, often several times a week
- Rest afterward: many people feel tired after treatment
- Meals: easy, kidney-friendly meals ready after sessions
- Access site care: follow instructions to protect the fistula, graft, or catheter, and avoid blood pressure checks or tight clothing on that arm if instructed
- Home dialysis: if your loved one does home dialysis, follow the training and supply instructions carefully
Managing Fatigue
Fatigue is common with kidney disease and dialysis. Pace activities, rest when needed, and get help with tiring tasks like housework and bathing.
Warning Signs to Report
Contact the care team for:
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, or face
- Sudden weight gain
- Shortness of breath
- Changes in urination
- Fever, or redness or drainage at the dialysis access
- Confusion, unusual weakness, or irregular heartbeat
Call 911 for chest pain or severe shortness of breath.
Emotional Well-Being
Living with kidney disease can be stressful and isolating. Encourage connection, enjoyable activities on non-dialysis days, and conversations with the care team about mood.
Working as a Team With the Care Team
People with kidney disease usually see several specialists, including a nephrologist, a dialysis team, a dietitian, and a primary care doctor. Keep a single folder with lab results, medication lists, and diet instructions, and bring it to every appointment. Write down questions between visits, and ask who to call when something changes. Families who stay organized help catch problems early and make the treatment plan easier to follow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can home care help someone on dialysis?
Yes. Non-medical caregivers can help with transportation, meals that follow dietary guidelines, rest and recovery after treatment, household tasks, and medication reminders.
Can a person with kidney disease live alone?
Many can, especially in earlier stages. Support with meals, transportation, and daily tasks can help as needs grow.
How Briggs Home Care Can Help
Briggs Home Care’s chronic conditions care supports people living with kidney disease with kidney-friendly meal preparation, rides to appointments and dialysis, medication reminders, and help on tiring days. Find a location near you or call 1-833-960-CARE (2273).
This article is general information, not medical advice. Follow the guidance of the healthcare team and renal dietitian.
Related Reading
- Start here: Living Well at Home With a Chronic Condition: A Family Guide
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- Supporting a Loved One Through Cancer Treatment at Home
Trusted outside resource: National Institute on Aging
