Director: Markus Bitzer, M.D.

Kidney disease is very common in older adults and strongly contributes to loss of quality of life, but the causes and complications of kidney disease are different in older patients. To meet the specific needs of older adults with kidney disease, we have established a Geriatric Kidney Disease Clinic at the East Ann Arbor Health and Geriatrics Center. The clinic is held on the first Friday of each month and is open to older adults (age 65 years or older) with kidney problems.

In addition to evaluating signs of kidney disease (including proteinuria, rise in serum creatinine, electrolyte abnormalities, difficulty controlling hypertension), we focus on counseling and management of patients with continuously decreasing kidney function who are approaching kidney failure. Together with patients, and their families and caregivers, we help identify the best options for managing their kidney disease. We continue to support the patient through individualized management of complications of kidney failure and preparation for dialysis or transplantation, if needed.

Our team includes nephrologists and social workers that focus on the geriatric aspects of Nephrology. We work closely with our Geriatric colleagues in order to provide individualized care for older patients with kidney disease and decreased kidney function.

Contact, Appointment and Referral Information