12/05/2019
Did you know...
That the elderly and/or sedentary people are most likely to develope a skin reaction know as Chilbais, which are patches of red, swollen and itchy skin thought to be caused by a combination of cold weather and poor cirdulation.
The elderly can lose body heat faster than when they were younger due to their body changes, ex. thinner skin.
A big chill can turn into a dangerous problem before an older person even know what's happening. This serious problem is known to be called hypothermia.
Hypothermia is what happens when your body temperature drops low. For the elderly, a body temperature of 95 degrees Farenheight or lower can cause many health issues, such as a heart attack, liver damage, kidney problems, or worse...
Living in a cold house or apartment, being in a cold building, or being outside too long in the cold can cause hypothermia.
Preventable measures of hypothermia:
-Make sure your home's temperature is at least 68-70 degrees; make sure your home is not losing heat through windows or doors by using weather stripping or caulk.
-Dress warmly on cold days, or if staying in home use blankets over legs, wear slippers or socks in home; wear long underwear under clothes or pajamas, wear a cap or hat.
-Make sure you eat enough food to keep up your weight, body fat helps you to stay warm.
-Drink alcohol in moderation, if at all. Alcoholic drinks can make you lose body heat.
-Make sure that you ask your family and/or friends to check on you during the cold weather times. If lose electricity, stay with your family or friend until restored.
*This is just a little tid-bit on elderly awareness during the cold weather
