The National Institute on Aging says senior adults are especially prone to hypothermia.
/ Justin Andrews
KIRKSVILLE, MO -- You probably already know with winter, comes trouble. And cold itself can cause a problem.
Hypothermia takes place when your body temperature drops below normal.
The National Institute on Aging says senior adults are especially prone to hypothermia. Seniors lose body heat faster which gives them the higher risk of this serious problem.
Pam Windtberg, Executive Director of Northeast Missouri Area Agency on Aging says many senior adults are not aware they may have hypothermia.
"A big thing is maintaining the proper temperature in your home it should be 68 to 70 degrees," Windtberg said. "I know a lot of people because of rising heat costs turn down the thermostat. That is very dangerous. Even homes that are moderately cool, like 60 to 65 can cause a problem for the elderly for hypothermia."
Windtberg tells KTVO senior adults should dress warm and wear lose layered clothes.
"Warning signs include confusion, forgetfulness, drowsiness, irritability, slow breathing and stiff muscles," Windtberg said.
She said it's also important that they keep their head, hands, feet and neck covered at all times during the cold temperatures.
If they are exposed to the cold too long, or have signs of these symptoms, they should seek medical help immediately.
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