4 Safety Measures for Extremely Cold Weather Conditions from the NIA.
We all know to be cautious about slippery conditions but hypothermia is a real danger for seniors. Spring is on it’s way but we are liable to have a few more cold snaps before it’s here to stay. It is important to check in and make sure they are warm enough both indoors and out.
When you do, make sure to check for signs of hypothermia such as slowed or slurred speech, sleepiness or confusion, shivering or stiffness in their limbs, poor motor/body control and slow reactions pr weak pulse.
The National Institute of Aging recommends the following:
Make sure the home is warm enough. Set the thermostat to at least 68 to 70 degrees. Even temperatures from 60 to 65 degrees can result in hypothermia in older people.
Have them wear long underwear under their clothing along with socks and slippers. Use a blanket or afghan to cover legs and shoulders and have them wear a hat or cap. They can lose a great deal of body heat quickly if their heads are cold.
When going outdoors, wear hat, scarf and gloves or mittens to prevent loss of body heat Remember the hat is essential. LAYER, LAYER, LAYER. It is important to have several layers of loose clothing to trap warm air. Natural fabrics are best, wool, cotton and silk. Silk has properties that make it most like the human skin so if you can put an under layer of silk garments against their skin and a silk scarf under their hat it will provide further insulation.
Check with the Doctor to see if any prescriptions or over the counter medications might increase the risk of hypothermia.
Sources: Next Avenue and NIA