As we age, our ability to acclimatise to cold weather may change.  Once upon a time we may not have felt the cold, but as we get older we may feel more sensitive to cold weather. Homestyle Aged Care have shared their tips for keeping our loved ones warm this winter.
Becoming more sensitive to the chilly weather can occur for a number of reasons:
A decrease in the metabolic rate. Ageing bodies are not capable of generating enough heat to maintain the normal body temperature of 36-37c

Thinning of the fat layer beneath the skin

Low blood pressure

Older people are often less physically active

Side effects from certain medications

Medical conditions such as thyroid disease or high cholesterol

Poor blood circulation
Signs of cold sensitivity are more than just feeling cold or shivering!  They can also include:
Skin turning pale

A slower rate of breathing

Drowsiness

Confusion

Undue fatigue

Loss of co-ordination

Memory loss
There are a number of things we can do to assist the elderly to stay warm. These include:
Raising the ambient temperature

Ensuring their home is well insulated to retain the heat and draft proofing doors and windows

Providing warm beverages such as tea/coffee or a cup of Milo

Warming the bed with an electric blanket, or by layering blankets rather than using just one heavy blanket or doona

Dressing in layers rather than heavy clothing, and starting with basic thermals such as a vest

Trying to get your loved one to move around, rather than sitting all the time

Supplying a wheat pack, or back/hand warmer which can heated quickly in the microwave

Eating well, for eg. hearty soups which contain nutrients required to maintain a healthy immune system

Ensuring your loved one has their flu vaccination just before winter, as flu can progress to pneumonia

Assisting the elderly to best cope with winter just takes a little preparation and care.

source: www.homestyleagedcare.com.au