Winter is in full swing, and with it comes flu season, icy roads, and cold temperatures! With colds, flu, and a new strain of COVID-19 going around, you may not consider the colder temperatures to be of concern, but it’s important to stay warm.
As we age, we tend to lose body heat more quickly. This can become a problem before we even realize it! Being really cold can cause serious sickness, so it’s important to stay warm.
Here are some tips from the National Institute on Aging to help keep you warm this winter:
- Set your heat to at least 68–70°F. To save on heating bills, close off rooms you are not using. Close the vents and shut the doors in these rooms, and keep the basement door closed. Place a rolled towel in front of all doors to keep out drafts.
- Make sure your house isn’t losing heat through windows. Keep your blinds and curtains closed. 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 in the house. Throw a blanket over your legs. Wear socks and slippers.
- When you go to sleep, wear long underwear under your pajamas, and use extra covers. Wear a cap or hat.
- Make sure you eat enough food to keep up your weight. If you don’t eat well, you might have less fat under your skin. Body fat helps you to stay warm.
- Drink alcohol moderately, if at all. Alcoholic drinks can make you lose body heat.
- Ask family or friends to check on you during cold weather. If a power outage leaves you without heat, try to stay with a relative or friend.