Yes, the cold does affect older adults. The reason is that as we age, the skin becomes thinner and it is common for the sensation of cold and heat to change. In addition, the basal metabolism, i.e. the energy needed to perform body functions and thermoregulation change, which generates that people are more susceptible to temperature variations (Tortosa, 2016).
In addition, cold often increases the symptoms of muscle and bone diseases, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatism. It also affects those suffering from cardiovascular or respiratory diseases (How cold affects the elderly, 2021). On the other hand, if the necessary measures are not taken, there is a risk that they may experience hypothermia. It is important for caregivers of older adults to be alert to symptoms such as drowsiness, stiffness in the limbs, weak pulse, etc., because, if so, the older adult requires immediate attention.
It is important to keep in mind that, although winter in Costa Rica is not characterized by extreme low temperatures, depending on the place where the older adult lives and his sensitivity to the cold, he may need special care at this time of the year. Some of these are the following:
1. Keeping the body active
Avoid sedentary lifestyles in the older adult population to prevent muscles and joints from atrophy.
2. Adequate caloric intake
On cold days it is especially important to consume protein, carbohydrates and warm food or beverages.
3. Prevent older adults from going out on cold nights.
And if it is extremely necessary to go out, they should wear warm clothing to keep warmth especially in their throat and feet. Since, as mentioned, the elderly population is vulnerable to the cold, they require more care.
Bibliographic references:
(How the cold affects the elderly (2021). Atilano Sánchez Sánchez Foundation. Retrieved from: https://www.fundacionfass.org/general/como-afecta-el-frio-a-las-personas-mayores/#:~:text=Por%20qu%C3%A9%20afecta%20tanto%20el%20fr%C3%ADo%20a%20personas%20mayores,-A%20todos%20nos&text=Porque%20conforme%20se%20cumplen%20a%C3%B1os,m%C3%A1s%20propensa%20a%20sufrir%20sequedad.
Tortosa, J. (2016). Recommendations for Combating the Cold with Our Elders. Alzheimer's Universal. Retrieved from: https://www.alzheimeruniversal.eu/2016/11/10/recomendaciones-combatir-el-frio-mayores/
