Cold Weather, Warm Hearts

As Told by Butterfly’s Resident LMR Eldercare Contributor, Lisa Bayer

Lisa Bayer, J.D., CCM, Certified Geriatric Care Manager, is President of LMR Eldercare, LLC, a private elder care advocacy firm located in northern New Jersey.

As record-breaking cold, ice and snow affects many most of the nation in the past few weeks there are things we can do to help our older loved ones stay warm and avoid hypothermia.

Hypothermia is a drop in normal body temperature of, generally, 98.6 degrees. Hypothermia occurs when a person is exposed to cold and their body is unable to replenish the heat that is being lost. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, numbness, fatigue, shortness of breath, weak pulse, slurred speech, irrational behavior or even unconsciousness.

We can help our loved ones avoid hypothermia by making sure their heat is working properly, encouraging them to dress in layers, and by making sure there are adequate blankets available should there be heat loss in the home. It is important to avoid exposure and stay dry. Moisture, including that from perspiration, affects the insulating properties of almost anything. Wool is the best fabric for retaining insulating properties, even when wet.
If you know of older adults living alone it is important to check on them daily, especially those that are experiencing memory loss as that can impair judgment.

Lastly, if you suspect hypothermia, contact emergency personnel immediately as this is a life-threatening medical condition. If possible, move the individual to a warm area to prevent further heat loss and replace wet clothing with dry. To avoid possible shock or heart failure do not try to warm a person further before emergency help arrives.