How Seniors Can Prevent Hypothermia This Winter

Officials at the National Institute on Aging and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) warn seniors are especially prone to hypothermia because their response to cold can be diminished by chronic medical conditions and certain medications, reports HealthDay News . Symptoms of incipient hypothermia can include slowed or slurred speech, sleepiness or confusion, shivering or stiffness in limbs, poor control over body movement, slow reactions, a weak pulse, or a core body temperature of 95 degrees Fahrenheit or lower. NIH says such a body temperature can lead to heart rhythm disturbances as well as kidney and liver damage. NIH officials recommend seniors wear a hat, scarf, and gloves when going outside in cold weather, and multiple layers of clothing to trap warm air between the layers. Seniors also should notify others when they are planning to spend time outside and have a fully charged cellphone on hand. Being in a warm home setting is also advised, with the thermostat set to at least 68 degrees Fahrenheit.