Kosher Fitness
By Michael Ungar
Here in Northeast Ohio, winter has definitely arrived (albeit several weeks before the winter solstice). Temperatures have been in the 20s (Fahrenheit) and the snow has been falling. I happen to love snow, but am not a fan of the cold. Others could do without both, and for still others “it’s the most wonderful time of the year!”
What effect, though, does the cold weather have on our bodies… especially for older adults? It turns out that seniors are more affected by the lower temperatures than most of the rest of the populations. As we age, our bodies are less efficient at regulating their own temperatures and retaining heat. Our blood vessels are not as elastic as they once were and warming blood may not make it out to extremities as well as they once did. The layer of fat under our skin typically thins out as we age, leaving us less “insulation.” Additionally, there are some medical conditions and medicines that can interfere with the regulation of our body temperature. All of this leaves older adults more vulnerable to the cold.
The National Institute on Aging (part of the National Institutes of Health) has a number of recommendations to prevent serious conditions that can occur as a result of exposure to the cold, such as frostbite and hypothermia. As for being outdoors, “check the weather forecast for windy and cold days. A heavy wind can quickly lower your body temperature; try to stay inside or in a warm place. If you must go out on windy, cold or damp days, don’t stay outside for long. Let others know when you’re planning to spend time outdoors and carry a fully charged mobile phone. Keep warm blankets and extra cold-weather clothing in your car. Wear a hat, scarf and gloves or mittens to prevent loss of body heat through your head and hands. Also consider using disposable or rechargeable hand- and foot-warming products. Wear warm and loose layers of clothing. The air between the layers helps to keep you warm. Wear a waterproof coat or jacket if it’s snowy or rainy. Change out of damp or wet clothes as soon as you can.”
Believe it or not, exposure to cold can also be an issue indoors. The NIA recommends the following: “Set your heat to at least 68°F. Even mildly cool homes with temperatures from 60 to 65°F can lead to hypothermia in older adults. Place a rolled towel in front of doors to keep out drafts. Keep your blinds and curtains closed, and if you have gaps around the windows, try using weather stripping or caulk to keep the cold air out. Dress warmly on cold days, even if you are staying inside. Wear socks and slippers and make use of throw blankets. When you go to sleep, use extra covers. Wear long underwear under your pajamas and consider wearing a head covering. Make sure you eat enough food to maintain your weight—some body fat is necessary for staying warm. Avoid or limit alcohol intake. Alcoholic drinks can make you lose body heat. Ask someone to check on you during cold weather. If a power outage leaves you without heat, try to stay with a relative or friend.”
Winter in northern climes presents unique challenges to older adults. With the proper precautions—outside and inside—we can enjoy (or at least survive) what the season has to offer.
Stay dry. Stay warm. Stay safe!
This lightly edited blog was originally published on kosher-fitness.com on 12/3/24 by Rabbi Ungar. Photo from pexels.com.
