Keeping The Elderly Warm During The Winter

The elderly are typically more vulnerable to cold weather, as the skin’s protective abilities, bone strength, and the body’s ability to regulate temperature all weaken with age. For these reasons and others, winter preparation is especially critical for the elderly. Before the season approaches, there are several things for older people to consider in order to stay warm enough and avoid complications. Heating costs often put pressure on elderly people because many are on fixed incomes, and so they may not keep their homes warm enough. Besides an annual furnace inspection to help prevent breakdowns, draft-proofing the home is also important, as well as rearranging furniture to utilize warm spots. Heating should be concentrated only in continuously used rooms and kept low elsewhere, and an oil-filled radiator can provide safe and efficient space heating. Many older people have an increased risk of developing blood clots in cold temperatures, as their vessels usually have rougher linings. In general, several thin layers of clothing provide more effective insulation than one thick layer. Warm winter hats and non-skid slippers are also essential, as body heat is quickly lost through the head and feet. Electric blankets work well for keeping warm overnight, and many now have versatile thermostat settings. A hot water bottle may be used to warm the bed ahead of time before sleeping.rnThe elderly should be well stocked on groceries and medicines to reduce the number of trips they must make in cold, and potentially hazardous, wintry conditions. Beneficial foods and beverages for keeping warm include hot drinks such as tea and cocoa, which will warm the body from the inside out, and hot meals that are high enough in carbohydrates and protein to effectively maintain body temperature. It is also important for the elderly to stay as active as possible and avoid sitting still for extended periods of time, even if doing only simple exercises, as this will promote blood circulation to help stay warm.