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Elderly people are very vulnerable when it comes to cold weather, but sometimes they do not even feel cold. Their blood circulation is slower, and they often face problems with hypothermia. Hypothermia occurs when the body temperature is lower than the standard levels. It is a serious situation which may even lead to death if it is not treated quickly. Besides that, most of the seniors are prone to catching frequent colds, bronchitis or having sinus problems. However, there are some steps which you can take in order to prevent occurrence of hypothermia in your elders.

  • Drinking plenty of water can do wonders. One of the reasons for many health problems, including hypothermia, is dehydration. It can happen even in the cold months. Six to eight glasses per day should keep the body juices flowing and seniors will feel more energetic.
  • Keep the room temperature warm at all times. Some statistics point out that almost half of the all hypothermia deaths happen to people above the age of 65, and mostly indoors. Bad thing is that elderly may not even complain that they are cold or they may not shiver at all. The usual symptoms of hypothermia include confusion, loss of energy, reduced heart rate and sleepiness. That is why you should make sure that the inside temperature is warm and comfortable. Dressing with few pieces of clothes in layers also helps.
  • Remove wet shoes and socks after entering home. Sometimes when seniors get back from outside cold and wet conditions, they forget to take of their wet socks. They may not even feel that they are wet, but the cold can quickly come up to them. Warm and dry clothes are simple, but efficient step in battling hypothermia. Wet shoes can also leave water puddles in the home, which can be slippery and can lead to falls. Having a chair or bench close by the door, with dry socks and house shoes nearby can be very helpful for the elderly.
  • Exercising regularly is very important even for elderly people. Most of them are not active, but this can be a big mistake. Exercising is essential because it helps in improving body circulation and it keeps the muscles flexible and strong. Coordination, balance and normal heart rate is also achieved through exercising, so the elderly could benefit a lot if they have a good routine of exercising daily.