How to Protect the Elderly from Hypothermia
As you age, your body becomes less able to regulate its temperature. This is especially true if you live in a cold climate or lead a sedentary lifestyle. Remember that seniors are also more likely than most other people to suffer from hypothermia. Seniors tend not to be as mobile or active as younger adults.
It is important to know the warning signs of hypothermia in seniors, as well as how to prevent it or what you can do if your loved one suffers from it. Keep reading to learn more.
What is Hypothermia?
Hypothermia is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the body temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit. If you have hypothermia, your organs and tissues hardly receive enough oxygen to function properly. This can lead to serious health problems or even death if it's not treated right away.
What are the Common Symptoms of Hypothermia?
The common symptoms of hypothermia in seniors include:
- Drowsiness and loss of coordination
- Slurred speech or confusion
- Shivering, numbness, and muscle stiffness
- Loss of consciousness (in severe cases)
- Tips for preventing hypothermia in seniors
How Can You Protect Your Senior Loved One from Hypothermia?
Make Sure Your Loved One Stays Warm
You can prevent hypothermia in seniors by helping them dress appropriately for the weather. Make sure they wear a hat, scarf, or mask when going outside during cold temperatures. You should also keep your loved ones indoors as much as possible during the winter months so that they don't get too cold.
You should also ensure that the house in which your elderly loved one stays warm enough for seniors. This is especially true if they are living alone or have mobility issues. If your loved one's home doesn't have a working heating system, you can help them pay for one so that they can enjoy the comfort of a warm home during winter.
Make Sure they Eat and Drink Enough
Make sure your loved one eats a balanced diet, which includes plenty of protein. Protein-rich foods give you more energy to keep warm during the winter months. Also, make sure that seniors stay hydrated by encouraging them to drink at least two liters of water each day. Not only can dehydration make them feel colder, but it can also lead to other health problems, such as constipation.
Ensure they Exercise Regularly
Exercise can help seniors maintain their muscle strength and flexibility. This is very important when it comes to regulating body temperature. Regular exercise also helps seniors improve their cardiovascular health, so they have more energy throughout the day.
Encourage Them to Talk About Any Health Concerns
Make sure your loved one tells you if they're feeling cold all the time so that it doesn't lead to a serious medical problem. If you notice them shivering or having difficulty breathing in cold weather, take them indoors immediately and call for emergency help. Of course, hypothermia can be very serious, so you should never attempt to diagnose or treat this condition yourself.
Do You Need Help?
Preventing hypothermia in your loved one isn't always easy, especially if you are often too busy to ensure they stay warm, or take care of them if they have a chronic illness. So it's best to seek help from home care services. Professional caregivers can do things, like check on them daily and make sure that their homes are properly heated during the winter months.
Luckily, Senior Helpers Baltimore provides a wide range of in-home care services for seniors, including assistance with hypothermia prevention. Our caregivers can help your loved one stay safe, healthy, and happy during the winter months by providing care that's tailored to their specific needs. If you want to learn more about our services, or simply talk to us, go to our page to schedule a consultation today!