Functions of kidney:
1. Urine formation
2. Excretion of waste products
3. Regulation of electrolytes
4. Regulation of acid–base balance
5. Control of water balance
6. Control of blood pressure
7. Renal clearance
8. Regulation of red blood cell production
9. Synthesis of vitamin D to active form
10. Secretion of prostaglandins
11. Regulates calcium and phosphorus balance
12. Activates growth hormoneAge-Related Changes
- Nephrons lost with aging
- Reduces kidney mass and GFR
- Less urine concentration
- Risk for dehydration