Don't Wear Two Pairs of Socks: 6 Important Winter Attire Tips for Seniors

Though Houston, Texas, and the surrounding areas boast a warm-weather climate, residents still experience plenty of chilly days. True, Houston temps rarely dip below freezing, but November, December, and January see low temperatures in the forties.

Seniors living in the Houston area may even feel a chill when the thermometer reads in the sixties and low seventies. Senior Helpers of Houston wants to ensure that the area's residents stay warm and comfortable during the winter months.

Why Seniors Sometimes Struggle to Stay Warm

Those caring for a senior loved one know that seniors often feel cold more quickly and more intensely than younger people. The reasons for the sensation of chilliness include thinning skin, poor circulation, and a slower metabolism.

Even seniors living in southern states may feel uncomfortable when others think the temperature seems fine. It's important to make sure that seniors possess and use the types of clothing that will help keep them warm.

6 Tips for Staying Warm in the Houston Area

Your elderly relative doesn't need to turn the thermostat up to 80 degrees, wear a winter coat, or struggle with putting on two pairs of socks to get warm. There are practical clothing solutions that will keep your senior loved one warm and comfortable and the rest of the household from sweltering.

1. Dressing in layers provides an excellent solution for seniors in areas around Houston. Lightweight cardigan sweaters and sweatshirts are easy to take on and off as needed. It's also a good idea to own a couple of robes of different weights that seniors can quickly put on with pajamas.
2. Head coverings such as a lightweight knit cap or a baseball cap may help seniors keep warm. It's a myth that we lose 50% of our body heat through our heads. The actual amount measures closer to 10%. Still, head coverings may come in handy, especially for a senior with thinning hair.
3. Knit socks in wool or heavy cotton make sense for the winter months in the Houston area.
4. Warm slippers that easily slip on and off also help to keep feet warm and toasty.
5. Shawls and pashmina-type scarfs offer a quick warm-up at home and double as stylish accessories to wear when out and about.
6. Lightweight gloves work well in a temperate climate such as Houston. To keep warm, seniors may occasionally appreciate a pair of knit mittens when the temperatures drop to the low forties.

Other Tips for Staying Warm

Some other suggestions to help keep seniors warm and comfortable without impacting the comfort of other family members include the following:

• Warm and breathable bedding with cotton comforters and lightweight blankets work well in Houston. During the winter months, flannel sheets also add a layer of warmth.
• Humidifiers add moisture to the dry air caused by heating systems.
• Afghans and throws added to a senior's favorite easy chair make a world of difference for reading or watching television in comfort.

We Can Help

Seniors Helpers of Houston serves the communities of Houston, South Houston, and Harris County. We would love to talk to you about options for in-home senior care, so don't hesitate to contact us here to learn more about how we help care for seniors and make your life a little more manageable.