I’m 85 and Still Fishing: 5 Secrets to Living Well with Late-Stage Kidney Disease

I’m 85 and Still Fishing: 5 Secrets to Living Well with Late-Stage Kidney Disease

At 85, I still wake up at dawn, grab my fishing rod, and head to the lake—despite living with stage 4 kidney disease. My doctors initially warned me to “take it easy,” but I refused to let my diagnosis steal the joy of my golden years. With the right strategies, I’ve managed to fish, garden, and even travel to see my grandkids. If you’re facing kidney disease, know this: your life isn’t over. Here’s how I stay active, happy, and in control.

1. Partner Closely with Your Care Team (But Speak Up!)

Your doctors are experts, but you’re the CEO of your health.

What I Do:

  • Ask “What If?”: Instead of “Can I fish?” I ask, “How can I fish safely with my energy levels?” My nephrologist suggested shorter trips and a folding stool.

  • Demand Clear Lab Explanations: Don’t settle for “Your numbers are stable.” Ask: “What’s my eGFR today? How does this affect my symptoms?”

  • Fire Bad Communicators: I switched nephrologists twice until I found one who listened.

Pro Tip: Use a symptom tracker app like [Cara Care] to log fatigue, swelling, or appetite changes. Share it at appointments.

2. Stay Active—But Redefine “Exercise”

Movement keeps your muscles strong and mood uplifted. Forget marathons—think micro-activities.

My Routine:

  • Fishing Counts! Casting works my arms; walking to the shore boosts circulation.

  • Chair Yoga: I follow [YouTube videos] for stiff joints (no floor mats needed).

  • 5-Minute Rule: On bad days, I march in place during TV ads or lift soup cans.

Key: Balance activity with rest. I nap before I’m exhausted.

Amazon Must-Have: [Lightweight Travel Fishing Chair] – Padded back, cup holder, and weighs under 5 lbs.

3. Eat for Joy—Not Just Lab Results

A kidney-friendly diet doesn’t have to taste like cardboard.

My Kitchen Hacks:

  • Spice Swaps: Garlic powder and lemon zest replace salt. Try [Mrs. Dash Salt-Free Blends]

  • Freezer-Friendly Meals: I batch-cook low-phosphorus soups and freeze portions for low-energy days.

  • Treat Yourself: My nephrologist okayed one scoop of low-potassium ice cream ([NadaMoo!] weekly.

Avoid: “Renal diet” cookbooks with complicated recipes. Stick to simple staples like grilled chicken, rice, and steamed veggies.

4. Outsmart Fatigue and Swelling

Late-stage kidney disease brings frustrating symptoms. Here’s my battle plan:

For Fatigue:

  • Time Dialysis Right: If you’re on dialysis, ask for evening sessions so you’re energized for morning activities.

  • Wear Compression Socks: Improves circulation so I can stand longer at my gardening bench. [Dr. Motion Socks] work best.

For Swelling:

  • Elevate + Ice: After fishing, I prop my legs on a [memory foam wedge] and apply cold packs.

  • Shoes That Stretch: [Orthofeet Sandals] adjust to swollen feet.

5. Build a “Why” List (And Live By It)

Kidney disease can feel isolating. Stay motivated by focusing on purpose.

My “Why” List:

  • Teach my great-granddaughter to fish.

  • Attend my grandson’s wedding next spring.

  • Finish my memoir about post-war Appalachia.

How to Start:

  1. Write down 3 things you’re not ready to give up.

  2. Share them with your care team—they’ll help tailor treatments to your goals.

Tool I Use: [Promptly Journals Guided Memory Book] – Makes storytelling easy despite brain fog.

Amazon Products That Keep Me Going

These affordable tools help me live well on tough days:

  1. Kidney-Friendly Protein Bars [ProtiDyne]

    • Low potassium, high protein for energy between meals.

  2. Portable UV Umbrella [Sport-Brella]

    • Sun protection is critical for dialysis patients. Fits over my fishing chair.

  3. Pill Organizer with Alarms ([ElecCube 7-Day Box])

    • Never miss immunosuppressants or phosphate binders.

  4. Lightweight Fishing Rod ([Shakespeare Microspin])

    • Easy to cast with arthritis. Fits in my car trunk.

  5. Air Fryer for Crispy, Low-Oil Meals ([Ninja Max XL])

    • Makes kidney-friendly fries from jicama or turnips.

Final Thoughts: You’re More Than Your Diagnosis

Kidney disease is a part of my life—but it doesn’t define me. By focusing on what I can do (not what I can’t), I’ve fished in 12 states, attended every family reunion, and even adopted a rescue cat.

Your Turn: Start small. Replant a flower box. Call an old friend. Remind yourself—and the world—that life with kidney disease is still life.

Next Step: Share this article with someone who needs hope. Then, grab your hat, your walking stick, and go make memories. The fish are biting! 🎣