How to Help Your Loved Ones with Chronic Kidney Disease

Having a strong support system is crucial for anyone living with a chronic illness. Kidney disease is no different. It is complex and can be potentially life altering. We’ve compiled some tried and true ways to support a loved one who is living with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).

Learn about the kidneys and their disease.

• Empower yourself  with knowledge about what they're going through, changes they may need to make, and the components and contributing factors. The more a support person knows, the better they understand and are able to help. 

Offer to help and participate in their care

• Encourage your loved ones to remain consistent on their prescribed diets and medication. 
• Offer to drive them to appointments and/or participate in appointments (with the patient’s consent)
• Help them grocery shop and meal prep to avoid deviations from dietary restrictions

Engage by sharing information and resources with them.

• National Kidney Foundation
• Chronic kidney disease - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic
• FAQs – AAKP
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) | NIDDK
• Chronic Kidney Disease Basics
• The Jacksonville Nephrology Blog: The Bean: Kidney Empowerment

Consider becoming a living donor.

• Did you know that you can live a healthy life with one kidney? Should your loved one’s kidney disease progress to needing dialysis or transplantation, consider becoming a living donor. While you may not be a perfect match, you could potentially save someone else’s life. 

Empower others by becoming an advocate.

• There are various ways to become an advocate for those living with CKD. There are various community pages that bring together caretakers, support people, patients, health care professionals, and members of the community. There are also annual walks, social events, and fundraisers nation-wide to support the millions of people with CKD. Jacksonville Nephrology walks annually with the National Kidney Foundation to support our patients and community. 

The Jacksonville Nephrology Team is here to support you on your journey with CKD. Should you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to our office.



Resources:
National Kidney Foundation
National Kidney Foundation
Renal Support Network​