Cold Weather Increases Risk to the Elderly

About 600 people in the U.S. die each year from a dangerous medical condition called hypothermia, and about half of those are over the age of 65. 

Hypothermia occurs when a person’s body temperature drops below 95 degrees because of exposure to cold temperatures.  The danger isn’t limited to being outside in winter weather.  It can also occur from exposure to cold temperatures inside as well.  The elderly are often at risk for hypothermia because they lose body heat faster.  Older adults also may have complicating medical conditions or take certain medications that affect their ability to gauge how cold they are. 

If you have an elderly relative or friend, watch for these signs of hypothermia and call 911 if you suspect the condition:

• Sleepiness
• Confusion
• Cold hands and feet
• Pale skin
• Slurred or slow speech
• Slow or shallow breathing
• Clumsy or unsteady movements

To learn more about hypothermia, visit the National institute on Aging website for a free copy of the free booklet, “Stay Safe in Cold Weather.”