This past Monday, we woke up to the news that a 93-year-old man froze to death in his home when the utility company limited his power supply (93-year-old freezes to death at home after utility firm limits power use). Sadly this happens every year - an elderly person freezes in the cold of our winters.

There is, unfortunately, a reason for this. The elderly are more susceptible to cold and hypothermia than younger people. According to this HealthDay article, With Age Comes Greater Risk of Hypothermia, "The ability to endure lengthy exposure to the cold lessens as people age, putting the elderly at a greater risk for hypothermia — the condition in which body temperature falls below normal and stays there for a prolonged period of time."

Many people say they prefer cold to heat because they can bundle up against the cold and there’s not much you can do about heat, but I’m one of those who hates, hates, hates being cold. I’m so miserable when I’m cold, I don’t know what to do with myself. Being too cold, like being too hot, is dangerous.

What are the signs of hypothermia?

According to the National Institute on Aging:

 Look for the “umbles” — stumbles, mumbles, fumbles, and grumbles — these show that the cold is affecting how well a person’s muscles and nerves work. Watch for:

* Confusion or sleepiness
* Slowed, slurred speech, or shallow breathing
* Weak pulse or low blood pressure
* A change in behavior during cold weather or a change in the way they look
* A lot of shivering or no shivering; stiffness in the arms or legs
* Chilly rooms or other signs that they have been in a cold place
* Poor control over body movements or slow reactions

Staying warm isn’t always easy. Sometimes, turning up the heat isn’t an option. If not, you should layer your clothing (long underwear, tights or leggings under pants, undershirts or t-shirts under tops), wear thick socks, and don’t feel odd about using a shawl when sitting and reading or watching TV. Staying warm is your most important goal.

Do you have any other ideas?

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