November 25, 2021: Elderly people feel the chill more during winters. Older people lose body heat faster than a young person. Extra care needs to be taken of aged people during winters. Keeping them warm is very important to avoid serious health conditions like hypothermia. In fact, cold can also cause a lot of discomfort for aged people who usually have other ailments like parkinsons, diabetes, arthritis or a heart condition.

The house or the room they stay in should be comfortably warm. Doors and windows should be kept shut to avoid any loss of heat. Comfortable warm clothing, keeping their hands and feet warm is important.

Here are some tips for keeping warm while indoors:

•             A room heater maybe used to keep the room warm. The temperature should be set at a comfortable level. But over heating or over use of a heater might result in dry skin and other discomfort. Hot water bags or bottles can be used on the bed or while sitting to keep oneself warm.

•             Do not leave doors, windows open. Use rolled newspapers or clothes to seal any gaps in windows or doors. Keeps doors of vacant rooms shut.

•             Dress warmly on cold days even when home. Throw a blanket over the legs when on bed or sitting on a chair. Wear socks and slippers.

•             Wearing a cap or a hat or covering the head with any head gear will help keep them warm. Covering the head and neck is important as people lose more body heat from the head and neck.

•             When sleeping, make sure that they wear long underwear under their pyjamas, and use extra covers.

•             Food intake should be taken care of so that body weight is maintained. Eating well also helps in generating body fat that helps a person stay warm.

•             Elderly people should avoid staying alone particularly during winters. They need extra food and care to beat the winters.

•             Warm beverages, honey (in moderation), ginger would help.

•             Winters can also give indigestion. Extra care needs to be taken while serving food and fruits to aged people during winters.

•             Aged people should avoid taking curd and fruits after sundown.

•             Elderly people should take extra care while taking showers because they might catch a cold.