Surreal image depicting the importance of kidney health in the elderly.

Silent Threat: Understanding Acute Kidney Injury in the Elderly

Beau Callahan in Health & Wellness November 2025 • 4 min read.

"Why recognizing and preventing acute renal failure is crucial for older adults' health and longevity."

The global population is aging, with projections indicating a substantial increase in the number of individuals over 60 and 80 years in the coming decades. This demographic shift brings unique healthcare challenges, particularly concerning kidney health.

In France, for example, the proportion of people aged 75 and over is expected to rise significantly in the coming years. As kidneys naturally undergo physiological changes with age, often without noticeable symptoms, the elderly become more vulnerable to acute kidney injury (AKI).

AKI incidence varies but can be significantly higher in older populations and those hospitalized or in intensive care. This article explores the frequency, causes, and impact of AKI in the elderly, emphasizing the importance of prevention and early detection to improve outcomes.

The Hidden Risks: Frequency and Causes of AKI in Older Adults

Surreal image depicting the importance of kidney health in the elderly.

A retrospective study conducted at a medical and rehabilitation hospital in France examined the occurrence of AKI in patients aged 75 and older. The study revealed that a significant proportion, 26.8%, of the hospitalized elderly patients experienced AKI. This highlights the substantial prevalence of AKI in this vulnerable population.

Several factors contribute to the increased risk of AKI in older adults. These include age-related changes in kidney function, the presence of chronic diseases, and the use of multiple medications (polypharmacy). The study identified several key causes:

Medications: Diuretics and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors were common culprits.
Functional Hypovolemia: Reduced fluid volume due to factors like dehydration.
Infections: Septic shock, a severe complication of infection, was a contributing factor.
Heart Failure: A condition where the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.
Surgical Procedures: Postoperative complications can sometimes lead to AKI.

The research indicated that patients with AKI experienced significantly longer hospital stays compared to those without AKI. This increased length of stay not only impacts the individual but also places a greater burden on healthcare resources. Furthermore, the study found a higher mortality rate among patients with AKI, underscoring the severity of this condition in the elderly.

Protecting Our Elders: The Path to Prevention

Acute kidney injury is a common and serious condition in the elderly, associated with prolonged hospital stays, increased treatment costs, and higher mortality rates. However, AKI is not inevitable. Prevention strategies focused on preserving extracellular fluid volume are critical.

Healthcare providers should carefully review medications, especially in older adults with pre-existing conditions. Monitoring kidney function and avoiding dehydration are also essential. Early detection and management of infections can help prevent septic shock and subsequent AKI.

By prioritizing kidney health and implementing preventive measures, we can significantly reduce the incidence and impact of AKI in the elderly, improving their overall health and quality of life. Recognizing and addressing AKI should be a marker of quality healthcare for our aging population.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.4172/2161-0959.1000217, Alternate LINK

Title: Acute Renal Failure In The Elderly, Over The Age Of 75, In The Medical And Rehabilitation Hospital Of Saint-Maurice (Paris - France)

Subject: General Medicine

Journal: Journal of Nephrology & Therapeutics

Publisher: OMICS Publishing Group

Authors: Alpha Oumar Bah, Mamadou Lamine Yaya Bah, Renaud Pequignot, Oumou Kimso

Published: 2015-01-01

Everything You Need To Know

What is acute kidney injury (AKI), and why is it a concern for the elderly?

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a sudden decline in kidney function, often occurring over a few days or hours. It's a serious condition where the kidneys fail to filter waste from the blood, potentially leading to a buildup of toxins and other complications. In the context of the elderly, AKI is a significant concern because of their increased vulnerability and the potential for severe health consequences, including extended hospital stays and a higher risk of mortality. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for improving outcomes.

What are the primary causes of acute kidney injury (AKI) in older adults?

Several factors heighten the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) in older adults. Age-related decline in kidney function, the presence of chronic diseases, and the frequent use of multiple medications, a situation known as polypharmacy, all contribute to this increased vulnerability. Specific causes include medications like diuretics and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, reduced fluid volume or functional hypovolemia often from dehydration, infections leading to septic shock, heart failure, and complications arising from surgical procedures. Understanding these risk factors is key to implementing preventive measures and providing timely interventions.

What was the rate of acute kidney injury (AKI) in the study involving older patients?

The study in France revealed that a significant 26.8% of hospitalized elderly patients experienced acute kidney injury (AKI). This high incidence rate underscores the substantial prevalence of AKI in this age group. This means a considerable portion of older adults admitted to hospitals are at risk, emphasizing the need for healthcare providers to be vigilant in monitoring and addressing kidney health. This also highlights the importance of preventative measures, such as ensuring adequate hydration and careful medication management, to reduce the risk of AKI.

What are the implications of acute kidney injury (AKI) for older adults?

Acute kidney injury (AKI) in the elderly leads to longer hospital stays because of the complex medical care required. It can also result in increased treatment costs due to the need for specialized interventions and prolonged care. Critically, it is associated with higher mortality rates, meaning older adults with AKI are at greater risk of death. These implications emphasize the importance of proactive measures to prevent and treat AKI effectively, as they have a significant impact on both individual health outcomes and healthcare resource utilization.

How can acute kidney injury (AKI) be prevented in the elderly?

Prevention is crucial when it comes to protecting elderly individuals from acute kidney injury (AKI). Preserving extracellular fluid volume is a key preventative strategy, often involving ensuring adequate hydration, especially in those taking diuretics or those at risk of dehydration. Careful monitoring of kidney function, medication adjustments, and prompt treatment of underlying conditions like infections or heart failure are also vital. By focusing on these measures, the impact of AKI on the elderly can be reduced, improving their overall health and well-being.