Senior Safety: What is hypothermia?

What is Hypothermia?

Facts: Older adults can lose body heat very rapidly.

A big chill could potentially turn into a very serious problem.

When your body temperature gets low, for an older adult, serious health problems can occur. Heart attack, Kidney problems, Liver damage, or even death.

Being outside, or even inside an older home can lead to the dangerous effects of hypothermia.

Tips for keeping warm inside:

1. Set your heat at 68 degrees or higher. (to save on bills, close off rooms you aren't using)

2. Wear long johns under your clothes. Use a blanket when you are sitting or laying down, wear socks and slippers.

3. When sleeping, wear long johns, use extra blankets, wear a cap.

Dress for the weather if you must go outside. wear loose clothing and many layers. Wear a hat and scarf, along with gloves. If its snowey, wear a waterproof jacket.

Early signs of hypothermia:

Cold feet and hands

Puffy or swollen face

Pale skin

Shivering

Slower than normal speech or slurring words

Acting sleepy

Being angry or confused

Later signs of Hypothermia:

Moving slowly, trouble walking, being clumbsy.

Stiff and jerky arm or leg movements.

Slow shallow breath.