Cold weather can be uncomfortable for anyone. However, for seniors, dropping temperatures can pose serious health risks. As we age, our bodies struggle to regulate body temperature. This can put seniors at a greater risk for hypothermia. Contrary to popular belief, the temperature does not need to be negative for hypothermia to occur. Mild hypothermia can set in at temperatures as warm as 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Tips for Seniors to Stay Warm This Winter
Preventing hypothermia and other health issues caused by cold weather is critical for seniors during the winter months. Whether your elderly loved one is living in a nursing home or their personal residence, following these tips can help the seniors in your life stay warm.
Keep the Heater On
Heating a home during winter can be expensive. However, the costs of not keeping the heater running could be deadly for the elderly. Since drops in body temperature often can’t be felt, keeping the heater running at a minimum of 68 degrees Fahrenheit is essential.
Be Wary of Portable Heaters
Space heaters and electric blankets are great solutions for keeping warm during the winter. However, when misused, these portable heaters become dangerous. To avoid fires, ensure that space heaters are in a well-ventilated area and kept away from flammable items such as clothes. Electric blankets are great during the day, but avoid using them at night as they can be difficult to adjust if they get too warm.
Bundle up and Layer Clothing
Layering is important for staying warm in the winter, even indoors. A light, breathable material is best closest to the skin, where heavier flannels or wools can go on top. When venturing outside, be sure to keep the hands and neck covered as this is where heat tends to escape the body. Socks and boots are also essential to keep feet warm and dry.
Eat Well and Move Regularly
As our bodies age and we need increased medication, our appetites may begin to wane. Many seniors also struggle to cook and find it challenging to eat well. Nutritious, hearty meals can help seniors regulate their body temperatures. Soups and casseroles are great options for winter meals. If the senior is unable to cook, meal services are a great way to get nutritious food regularly. If they are able, light exercise promotes blood flow and helps regulate body temperature. Even walking around the house or doing light stretches is beneficial for senior health.
Contact a Skilled New York Elder Abuse Attorney
If the senior in your life is staying at a nursing home, it is up to the nursing home and its staff to ensure your loved one is appropriately warm. If you or an elderly loved one is harmed this winter due to a nursing home or caregiver’s neglect, the skilled attorneys at Dalli & Marino, LLP can help. The attorneys at Dalli & Marino have over 25 years of experience helping clients with their nursing home abuse and personal injury cases and have a proven track record of favorable outcomes. To schedule a free consultation, call us at (888) 465-8790 or complete our contact form today. We also speak Spanish.
