Helping the Elderly Stay Warm This Winter
It can be very difficult for the elderly to stay warm when temperatures drop. Their body does not produce as much body heat, they have less ability to tell when their body temperature drops too low; compiled with medications that may thin their blood, poor nutrition, and poor blood circulations can all lead to dangerous health concerns.
There are a few ways you can help your elderly relative or friend stay warm this winter.
Wearing several thin layers of natural fiber loose-fitting clothes while indoors will help trap in body heat. If their body temperature rises, you can easily remove layers as needed to help prevent overheating.
Set the thermostat to at least 75 degrees or have a room that is heated and they is easily accessible for them to stay warm.
Have a throw blanket or shawl readily available that they can cover themselves with as needed to maintain warmth. A heavy blanket may be too much for them to use due to the weight, so keep it light.
Nutrition is important. You will want to ensure they are easting high calorie foods during the winter to help maintain their weight. Warm cups of tea, coffee, or chocolate will also help ward off the chills.
Seal drafts in their house where you can. Windows and doors are a big source for drafts. Adding plastic to windows, using heavy curtains on windows, and putting on door draft stoppers are easy ways to cut down on the cold coming into the house.
