Staying Warm in the Winter
Did you know that, on average, January is the coldest month of the year in New England? That makes it extremely important for seniors to know how to keep warm. Age is one of the biggest risk factors for Hypothermia, because the body’s ability to regulate temperature, and even sense cold, can lessen over time. Here are some tips for seniors to stay warm during the coldest months of the year.
It may seem obvious, but dressing in warm layers, even when indoors, is one of the best ways to keep your body warm during the cold. Layers can feel bulky and heavy, but many sporting good companies make layers that are much slimmer, but will still keep you warm. For seniors, undershirts and long underwear, are a great idea, even while in the house, to wear under your normal clothing.
Keep your extremities warm!
Especially while outside, any exposed areas of skin allow heat to escape from your body. You wouldn’t go outside with a coat, but wearing hats, scarves, and protective shoes are great ways to keep the heat in. Gloves and mittens are also very important for seniors to stay warm, and if you don’t mind mittens may actually keep your hands warmer than gloves!
For seniors, staying dry is an incredibly important part to staying warm. Dressing in layers, and wearing materials that wick away moisture are very helpful in keeping yourself dry while outside. Seniors should also remember to wear insulated, sturdy, closed shoes or boots while outside, so that water or snow is not soaking through them and getting feet wet. Hypothermia often starts at the extremities, so cold, wet feet can cause big problems for seniors.
Eat warm foods!
Eating right is important for seniors, year round, but during the winter, it can actually help you stay warm. Eating some extra healthy fats can help boost your metabolism, which in turn, keeps your body warmer. If you can’t work extra fats into your diet, try other warm foods to heat your body. Soups, and stews, along with warm drink and spicy foods are all great ways for seniors to warm their bodies from the inside out. However, consider avoiding alcoholic beverages as they thin your blood and can make your body even colder.
One of the best things you can do for yourself, as a senior, during the winter months is to know the warning signs of hypothermia. Hypothermia can be extremely dangerous and taking care of it as soon as possible leads to the best outcomes. Symptoms of mild hypothermia can include shivering, dizziness, hunger, nausea, faster breathing, trouble speaking, slight confusion, lack of coordination, fatigue and increased heart rate. For seniors, knowing, understanding and being able to recognize these symptoms can prevent a dangerous situation.
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