Hypothermia is a decrease in body temperature below 95 degrees Fahrenheit. It kills more than 700 people in the United States ever year and can be called a "silent killer" as many of its victims do not realize the danger. In fact, elderly persons may not realize they are getting cold. In addition, a poorly heated house can cause hypothermia in an older person. Alcohol use also is a major risk factor in hypothermia.
"While hypothermia is a risk for anyone in severely cold weather, the elderly are especially vulnerable because the ability to perceive cold diminishes with age," says Walter Hoefer, director of the New York State Office for the Aging. "Many older people take medications that may also blunt their reaction to the cold."
Here are some lifesaving tips to help you avoid hypothermia:
If you live alone, arrange for a daily check-in call by a friend, neighbor or relative.
Wear warm clothing. Instead of tight clothing, wear several loose, warm layers. Wear a scarf to avoid significant heat loss through your head and neck. Stay dry.
Dry wet hair quickly with an electric hair dryer; do not air-dry wet hair.
Use extra blankets when sleeping because hypothermia can develop during sleep.
Get enough rest; fatigue makes you more vulnerable to subnormal cold
Drink adequate amounts of liquids, such as water. Limit alcohol intake because alcohol speeds up body heat loss.
Stay as active as possible.
If you're taking medications, ask your doctor if they might affect your body temperature.
Maintain the room temperature at 65 degrees Fahrenheit, at a minimum. In fact, some frail elderly people require higher room temperatures to maintain body warmth and comfort.
Some people die of hypothermia because they or those around them do not recognize the symptoms. Here are some warning signs:
Muscles are often unusually stiff, particularly in the neck, arms and legs.
Shivering indicates the body is having trouble keeping warm and/or the skin is cool or cold.
The face is frequently puffy or swollen, especially in combination with cold skin and signs of confusion.
The person often has difficulty walking and has problems with balance. Watch for poor coordination and jerky movements.
Apathy is common. Often the person doesn't care what happens and will do nothing to help reduce the danger.
If you believe someone may be a victim of hypothermia, call an ambulance or rescue squad immediately. Following these simple precautions and watching for the warning signs will help you and those you love stay warm and healthy this winter.
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