Most older adults lose body heat fast, at least faster then when they were young. A big chill can become dangerous before an older person even realizes it. This is called hypothermia.
Hypothermia is what occurs when your body temperature is very low. For elderly folks, a body temperature lower than 95° can cause many health problems, such as heart attack, kidney problems, liver damage, or worse.
Some easy tips for keeping warm:
1. Set your heat at 68° or higher. To save on heating costs, close the doors to rooms you are not using. Roll up a towel and place in front of all doors and windows to keep out drafts.
2. To keep warm in your house, wear long johns under your clothes. Throw a blanket over your legs. Wear socks and slippers.
3. When you go to bed, wear long johns under your pajamas, and use extra covers. Wear a cap or hat.
4. Ask friends or family to check on you during cold weather.
5. Register with CONTACT Cape Atlantic telephone reassurance program at 609-823-1850. This is a free service to the elderly, disabled and isolated people in Atlantic and Cape May counties.
Early signs of hypothermia:
1. Cold feet and hands
2. Swollen face
3. Pale skin
4. Acting sleepy
5. Angry or confused
6. Slurring words
7. Shivering
Call 911 right away if you think someone has warning signs of hypothermia.
This information is brought to you by Genesis HealthCare. For more information on any of our North Cape May Centers, please call Denise Raymond at 609-602-7193. Victoria Manor provides skilled nursing care, long term care and memory impairment program. North Cape Center provides subacute care and short stay. Victoria Commons is a quality assisted living.
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