CKD Online Editorial Team
Last Updated: November 7, 2026 • Reading Time: 5 min
As people get older, kidney function naturally changes. Many adults over 70 experience a gradual decline in their kidneys’ ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood.
Understanding kidney function older than 70 is important because aging, high blood pressure, diabetes, and other medical conditions can increase the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD).
The good news is that regular monitoring, healthy lifestyle habits, and appropriate medical care can help older adults protect their kidney health.
1. Does Kidney Function Naturally Decline After Age 70?
Yes. Kidney function generally decreases with age, even in otherwise healthy individuals.
The kidneys contain millions of tiny filtering units called nephrons. As people age, some nephrons gradually lose function, reducing the kidneys’ overall filtering capacity.
According to the National Kidney Foundation, the average estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) for adults aged 70 and older is approximately 75 mL/min/1.73 m².
However, this is a population average, not a required target for every individual.
Other factors, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and kidney damage, can contribute to additional declines in kidney function.
2. What Is a Normal eGFR for Someone Older Than 70?
The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is one of the most important measurements used to evaluate kidney function.
Here is a general overview:
| eGFR | Kidney function category |
|---|---|
| 90 or higher | Normal or high |
| 60–89 | Mildly decreased |
| 45–59 | Stage 3a CKD range |
| 30–44 | Stage 3b CKD range |
| 15–29 | Stage 4 CKD range |
| Below 15 | Stage 5 CKD range |
An eGFR between 60 and 89 does not automatically mean someone has chronic kidney disease.
CKD is generally diagnosed when kidney damage or reduced kidney function persists for at least three months.
Doctors also consider urine albumin levels, medical history, and other test results before making a diagnosis.
3. Common Signs of Reduced Kidney Function in Older Adults
Early kidney disease often develops without noticeable symptoms.
However, as kidney function decreases, some older adults may experience:
- Swelling in the feet, ankles, or legs
- Changes in urination frequency
- Persistent fatigue or weakness
- Poor appetite
- Nausea
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in blood pressure
These symptoms can have many possible causes, particularly in older adults. Medical evaluation is important rather than assuming they are caused by kidney disease.
4. What Causes Kidney Function to Decline After Age 70?
Several factors can contribute to declining kidney function.
High blood pressure: Long-term uncontrolled blood pressure can damage the small blood vessels inside the kidneys.
Diabetes: Elevated blood glucose can damage kidney filtering structures over time.
Heart disease: Cardiovascular problems can affect blood circulation and kidney health.
Medications: Certain medications, particularly some pain relievers such as NSAIDs, may increase kidney risks.
Dehydration: Older adults may be more vulnerable to dehydration, which can contribute to acute kidney injury.
Understanding these risk factors helps families and healthcare professionals develop appropriate prevention strategies.
5. How to Protect Kidney Function After Age 70
Although aging cannot be reversed, several habits can support kidney health.
- Monitor blood pressure regularly.
- Manage diabetes with professional medical guidance.
- Reduce excessive sodium intake.
- Follow an individualized kidney-friendly eating plan.
- Stay physically active according to your abilities.
- Avoid unnecessary use of potentially harmful medications.
- Attend regular kidney function checkups.
Older adults should not automatically restrict potassium, phosphorus, protein, or fluids. Dietary needs depend on kidney function, laboratory results, and other medical conditions.
Helpful resource: Explore this kidney-friendly low-sodium cookbook for meal-planning ideas. Always adapt recipes to your healthcare professional’s dietary recommendations.
6. Important Kidney Tests for Adults Over 70
Regular testing can help identify kidney problems before serious complications develop.
Two particularly important tests include:
Blood creatinine and eGFR: These tests help estimate how effectively the kidneys filter waste products.
Urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR): This test checks for albumin, a protein that can appear in urine when kidney filtering structures are damaged.
Your healthcare professional may recommend additional tests depending on your medical history and existing conditions.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Is an eGFR of 60 normal for someone over 70?
An eGFR of 60 is below the average reported for adults over 70. If it remains below 60 for at least three months, it meets a major laboratory criterion for CKD. A healthcare professional should evaluate the result.
Can kidney function improve after age 70?
Some causes of reduced kidney function, such as dehydration or medication-related kidney injury, may be reversible. Chronic age-related changes are not always reversible, but appropriate care can help slow further damage.
How often should older adults check kidney function?
Testing frequency depends on individual risk factors and previous results. People with diagnosed CKD may need regular eGFR and urine albumin monitoring.
Can an elderly person live a long life with reduced kidney function?
Yes. Many older adults live for years with reduced kidney function. Outcomes depend on the underlying cause, CKD severity, other health conditions, and appropriate medical management.
Conclusion
Understanding kidney function older than 70 helps older adults and their families make informed decisions about long-term health.
Although kidney filtration naturally declines with age, reduced eGFR should not automatically be dismissed as normal aging.
Regular blood and urine testing, blood pressure management, appropriate nutrition, and medical supervision are essential for maintaining kidney health.
Always discuss abnormal kidney test results with a qualified healthcare professional.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
CKD Online Editorial Team reviews all medical content to ensure accuracy, clarity, and alignment with current clinical guidelines. Articles are updated regularly to reflect the latest evidence-based recommendations.