Why Are Seniors Always So Cold?

10th September 2024

As we age, our bodies become sensitive to cold temperatures. This is because of a decrease in the metabolic rate. Our aging bodies are not capable of generating enough heat to help maintain the normal temperature of 98.6 degrees.

In addition, thinning of the skin is another factor that may contribute to the "feeling of cold" in older adults. The increased sensitivity to cold or feeling cold more than usual can mean that your loved one is suffering from mild hypothermia.

Facts about hypothermia

Hypothermia is a condition characterized by extreme low body temperatures. When the temperature of the body falls below 95 degree, your body can suffer from hypothermia. When the temperature drops below this level, then sensitivity to cold sets in.

Factors that contribute to cold sensitivity in old age

With old age the physical capability undergoes a decline, and the body doesn't work they way it used to earlier. A drop in temperature can make our loved ones feel very cold, even if they are dressed up in warm clothing. There are various studies showing that older people have low body temperatures as compared to their younger counterparts. However, this doesn't always mean that they should feel cold round the year.

Various factors that contribute to cold sensitivity include:

Low blood pressure
Poor metabolic rate
Loss of elasticity of the blood vessels
Thinning of the fat layer beneath the skin. This is responsible for fat conservation. Which eventually keeps the body at the right temperature
Exposure to cold water
Side effects of certain medications such as beta blockers, calcium channel blockers
Physical problems
Certain medical conditions such as thyroid disease, high cholesterol to name a few

Medical Conditions contributing to being cold

Anemia
Poor blood circulation
Diabetes
Thyroid complications
Signs of cold sensitivity

Shivering even when the room temperatures are not too low
Skin turns pale
Breathing rate becomes slow
Memory loss
Drowsiness
Hands begin to fumble
Confusion sets in
Senior become exhausted
Speech becomes slurred
Undue fatigue
Loss of coordination

Tips to keep senior warm when they are cold

Raise the room temperature should to keep it warm.
Give seniors warm beverages, but avoid all forms of alcoholic beverages. However, if they are unable to swallow the drink, don't force them to.

Avoid using anything hot or warm directly on their skin.

It is also not advisable to give any form of massage

In case the senior is wearing wet clothing, it is advisable to remove those clothing first and put on the dry ones.

Use an electric blanket, or you can even consider putting layers of blankets or sheets to keep them warm.

Feeling cold even in the warm climates is a signal that a person should see a doctor. All the above-mentioned tips should help caregivers keep their loved ones warm.

Read more at caregiver.com