The Metro East region of Illinois has experienced record
breaking low temperatures. We are not
use to this. Winter temperatures in the
St. Louis Region range from an average high of 40 degrees and average low of 24
degrees. When the temperature and wind
chill drop below zero it seems that many residents are caught off guard. These frigid temperatures are especially
dangerous for the very old. Older people
lose body heat faster. That is why it is
critical that we are checking on our elderly relatives and neighbors.
Tips for elders in cooler temperatures
- · Elders should keep their homes at 68 degrees and above. Even a slightly colder home can lead to hypothermia.
- · When inside, elders should wear long underwear under clothes and also wear socks and slippers.
- · When outside hats, scarves, gloves, mittens and layers of loose clothing are a must. Frostbite can happen in a matter of minutes.
- · It important to check with your doctor to determine if any medications being taken can cause hypothermia.
For more tips on how to stay warm check out the National
Institute on Aging’s publication, Stay Safe in Cold Weather. http://www.nia.nih.gov/health/publication/stay-safe-cold-weather
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