Aging Changes in the Kidneys

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Common problems

Aging increases the risk for urinary disorders including acute kidney failure and chronic kidney failure. Bladder infections and other urinary tract infections are more common in the elderly. In part, this is related to incomplete emptying. It is also related to changes in the chemical balance of the urinary membranes.

Urinary retention (inability to completely drain the bladder, which can back up into the kidneys and damage them) is more common in the elderly. Many older people experience problems with bladder control (urinary incontinence).

Urinary system cancers are more common in the elderly, especially prostate cancer (men) and bladder cancer.

In both men and women, urinary changes are closely related to changes in the reproductive system. For example, men may experience problems because of an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hypertrophy). Women may experience vaginal infections (vaginitis) and subsequent bladder infections.