A drop in temperature might not concern younger people but for an older adult, it can bring on the onset of hypothermia, a condition that causes the body's temperature to drop to 96 degrees or lower. Underlying medical conditions and inactivity can cause diminished reaction to cold. Hypothermia is serious and should be attended to immediately. Symptoms include slowed or slurred speech, sleepiness or confusion, shivering or stiffness in arms and legs, poor control over body movements, or a weak pulse.
This is what you can do to prevent hypothermia in the elderly:
1. Keep the home at 68-70 degrees.
2. Layer clothes including long underwear. Wear warm socks and slippers and keep a toasty blanket close at hand. Wear a hat or cap, mittens or gloves and a scarf outdoors.
3. Make sure that your medications don't increase your risk.
For more about hypothermia and other first aids, visit 50somethinginfo.com.
4 comments:
This post tells me to call my parents every day, especially while we're buried in snow.
Not a bad idea!
And hydrate. My mom seems to be cold next to window at her nursing home. Sending brother to check it out.
It sure can be drafty by the window. Good idea, Diane. Again!!!
Post a Comment