With the mercury dropping rapidly and temperature breaking all-time records, we have all been exposed to extreme temperatures and air pollution. Older adults are particularly vulnerable because they easily pick up infections in hostile environments and deal with worsening symptoms of their existing comorbidities. Elderly people lose body heat faster and do not know when they will catch a severe cold or when they can quickly fall into hypothermia when their body temperature drops below normal. This can cause heart attacks and organ damage. What are the possibilities and prohibitions?
FOR THE REGULAR
1) Stay warm: As we age, our bodies become weaker in tolerating cold temperatures, so older people are always advised to use heat radiators to regulate the ambient temperature, wear heavy woolens in layers, or stay indoors in extremely cold temperatures. Hypothermia is a sudden drop in body temperature caused by prolonged exposure to cold weather. Take extra care if you are alone, as you may not be aware of the cold factor in your home or without other people noticing the changes, you may develop hypothermia unknowingly.
2) Stay active: For smooth and proper functioning, it is important not only to keep the body warm, but also to keep it active. Winter is the perfect time to stay in bed for longer, but being physically active and exercising will help you sweat and flush out toxins while keeping your skin healthy.
3) Stay hydrated: Water is the enemy for many of us in winter, but it is also essential to keep the body hydrated. Since there is already a lack of moisture in the air, dryness can extract water from the body. A moisturizer can also be used to maintain healthy skin.
4) Protect the limbs: Fingers, earlobes, toes and the tip of the nose are the first to feel the cold, so it is recommended to wear gloves and warm hats to protect your head, ears and hands from the cold weather. Put on socks and a pair of pajamas before tucking in under more blankets.
5) Insulate your house and room: Place a rolled towel in front of all doors to prevent drafts.
FOR THOSE WITH COMORBIDITIES
1) Keep common colds and other illnesses at bay: It is essential to protect yourself from short-term illnesses so that other long-term illnesses do not worsen. When energy levels are low, sugar levels can rise significantly.
2) Follow a healthy diet: Many of us crave something sweet after every meal throughout the year, and this tendency increases significantly in the winter, which can raise blood sugar levels and cause problems.
3) Keep your blood pressure and blood sugar under control: It is essential to keep these two point markers in mind to avoid wild swings.
WHAT TO AVOID
1) Don’t be inactive: Winter brings with it a wave of sleepiness and laziness, especially for older people, but it’s important to fight the urge to stay in bed all day and stay active.
2) Don’t stay out for long: Being outside for a long time in this cold weather can affect the health of everyone, not just the older generation.
3) Don’t forget vitamin D: Get as much sun as possible, as sunlight is the best source of vitamin D. An afternoon nap may be tempting, but warming up and toasting burritos can give you a boost.
COMMON DISEASES THAT LEAD TO COLD INTOLERANCE
Thyroid, diabetes, and arthritis can make it difficult to put on more clothes, use blankets, or leave the house. Slower rhythms, slurred speech, unusual slowness, disorientation and body imbalance are all symptoms of hypothermia. It’s a simple checklist to help you beat the bitterness of winter.