Why is Mom Always Cold?
Does your elderly mom complain about being cold all the time? The complaint isn’t uncommon for older adults. The reason may be age related since the body’s sensitivity to cold changes. Also, the layer of fat that lies beneath the skin and acts like insulation gets thinner. However, the reason may also be an indicator of a health problem.
Below are some health problems that may be causing the cold feeling.
Anemia
Sometimes a person’s body doesn’t have enough red blood cells to transport oxygen throughout the body. When that happens, it’s called anemia. Research shows that around 10 percent of those aged 65 or older have anemia. Aside from feeling cold, other symptoms of anemia are:
- Skin that is pale or yellowish.
- Inconsistent heartbeat.
- Headaches.
- Feeling short of breath.
Many times, anemia can be treated through diet. However, it’s still important to see a doctor if you suspect your parent is anemic.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid doesn’t make enough thyroid hormone. That can cause the metabolism to slow down, which interferes with the body’s ability to produce heat. Feeling cold is a common symptom of the condition. Other symptoms are:
- Thinning hair.
- Dry skin.
- Fatigue
- Diabetes
People with diabetes can develop complications that cause older adults to feel cold. It can cause anemia, kidney issues, and impaired circulation. Peripheral neuropathy is a common diabetes complication that causes hands and feet to feel numb or like they are tingling. They can also give a person the sensation of having cold feet, but when touched, the skin doesn’t feel cold.
Dehydration
One of the things that fluid in the body does is help with temperature regulation. In a properly hydrated body, water helps to keep heat inside the body and allows it to be released slowly. If your parent isn’t drinking enough, they could become dehydrated so that there aren’t enough liquids for temperature regulation.
If your aging parent is diagnosed with a health condition, or even if they could just use some extra help, a senior care provider can be just the resource they need. Senior care providers can assist with housekeeping duties, like vacuuming, dusting, doing dishes, and washing laundry. Another thing that senior care providers can do is make healthy meals, which can improve overall health for older adults. Senior care providers can also remind older adults that it is time to take medication. They can even remind your parent of upcoming appointments and provide transportation.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Elder Care in Clifton, VA, please call the caring staff at Care Hands Home Care today. Call 703-334-2862.
Sources:
Aarp.org
nytimes.com
health.com