Normal physiological changes with age
As the body ages, several natural changes occur that can affect temperature regulation, making an elderly person feel perpetually cold. These factors, though not necessarily indicative of a serious problem, can significantly impact an elderly person's comfort and well-being.
Decreased metabolic rate
The basal metabolic rate, or the energy your body expends at rest, slows down as you get older. With a lower metabolism, the body generates less heat, making it harder to stay warm and resulting in increased cold sensitivity.
Thinning skin and reduced fat
Over time, the skin becomes thinner and there is a reduction in the subcutaneous fat layer underneath. This fatty layer acts as natural insulation for the body. With less insulation, elderly people lose body heat more quickly, causing them to feel cold even in moderately cool environments.
Poorer circulation
With age, blood vessels can lose their elasticity, and the heart’s efficiency may decline. This can lead to decreased blood circulation, especially to the extremities like the hands and feet. Less blood flow means less warmth reaches these areas, resulting in a constant sensation of coldness in the limbs. Regular, gentle exercise can help improve circulation.
Altered perception
The part of the brain that regulates body temperature, the hypothalamus, may not work as efficiently as a person ages. This can alter how the body responds to temperature changes, meaning an elderly individual may not perceive cold accurately or shiver as effectively to generate heat.
Medical conditions and medications that cause cold sensitivity
While some cold sensitivity is a normal part of aging, a persistent feeling of coldness can also be a sign of an underlying medical issue or a side effect of medication. It's crucial to consult a doctor to rule out or manage these conditions.
Cardiovascular disease
Heart failure, peripheral artery disease (PAD), and other cardiovascular diseases can significantly affect circulation. Plaque buildup can restrict blood flow, especially to the extremities, leaving hands and feet feeling cold. The body prioritizes blood flow to vital organs like the brain and heart, reducing warmth to other areas.
Anemia
This condition is characterized by a low count of healthy red blood cells, which are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. When someone is anemic, their body doesn't have enough oxygen-rich blood to distribute heat efficiently, which can cause chronic cold feelings. Anemia can be caused by deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12, or folate.
Hypothyroidism
An underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) can cause a person's metabolism to slow down significantly. Because metabolism is responsible for generating body heat, a slower rate can lead to cold intolerance, fatigue, and other symptoms. A doctor can perform a simple blood test to check for this condition.
Diabetes and diabetic neuropathy
High blood sugar levels from diabetes can damage nerves over time, a condition known as diabetic neuropathy. This nerve damage can cause a person to feel tingling, numbness, or coldness in their hands and feet, even if their skin temperature is normal. Poor circulation associated with diabetes also exacerbates cold intolerance.
Medications
Certain medications, including beta-blockers for high blood pressure, some antipsychotics, and antidepressants, can impact blood circulation or body temperature regulation. If your mom's coldness began after starting a new medication, discuss it with her doctor.
How to manage and help an elderly person who is always cold
Beyond addressing any underlying medical issues, there are practical steps you can take to help keep your elderly mom warm and comfortable.
Ensure a warm living environment
Make sure your mom's home is adequately heated to a comfortable and safe temperature, ideally between 68°F and 70°F. Check for drafts around windows and doors and use draft stoppers or weatherstripping to seal them. In areas she uses most, consider a space heater with automatic shut-off and tip-over protection, ensuring it's placed safely away from curtains or furniture.
Layer clothing and use warm blankets
Encourage your mom to dress in several thin layers of clothing instead of one thick layer. A thermal base layer can be followed by a long-sleeved shirt and a sweater or cardigan. This layering traps heat more effectively. Provide warm blankets or a heated throw for when she is sitting.
Encourage movement and activity
Gentle physical activity, such as walking around the house, can help improve blood circulation and generate body heat. If mobility is limited, encourage simple seated exercises like leg lifts, foot circles, and arm stretches to boost blood flow.
Provide warming foods and drinks
Offer your mom hot, nourishing meals like soups, stews, and oatmeal. Warm beverages like herbal tea or warm milk can also help raise her body temperature from the inside.
When to see a doctor
While a slight increase in cold sensitivity is often normal with aging, certain signs warrant a medical evaluation. Consult a doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Persistent shivering or extreme coldness: Shivering that continues even when she is in a warm environment.
- Numbness or color changes: Fingers and toes that frequently feel numb, tingly, or change color (pale or bluish). This could indicate Raynaud's phenomenon or poor circulation.
- Signs of hypothermia: As elderly individuals can be more susceptible to hypothermia at higher temperatures, look for confusion, drowsiness, slurred speech, or slow, shallow breathing. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.
- New or worsening fatigue and weight changes: These can be signs of an underlying condition like hypothyroidism or malnutrition.
Comparison of common causes of cold sensitivity
| Cause | Mechanism | Symptoms | Management | Diagnosis |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Normal Aging | Slowed metabolism, thinner skin, reduced fat, less efficient thermoregulation. | Persistent feeling of coldness, slower adaptation to temperature changes. | Layering clothing, keeping environment warm, gentle exercise. | Typically observed by caregivers; not a disease itself. |
| Anemia | Insufficient red blood cells to transport oxygen and heat efficiently. | Chronic cold feelings (especially in extremities), fatigue, weakness, pale skin. | Dietary changes (iron-rich foods, B12), supplements, treating underlying cause. | Blood test (Complete Blood Count). |
| Hypothyroidism | Underactive thyroid slows metabolism and heat production. | Cold intolerance, fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, constipation. | Thyroid hormone replacement medication. | Blood test (Thyroid-stimulating hormone, TSH). |
| Poor Circulation | Narrowed or less elastic blood vessels reduce blood flow to extremities. | Cold hands and feet, numbness, skin discoloration. | Regular, low-impact exercise, leg elevation, compression stockings. | Physical exam, imaging, Doppler ultrasound. |
| Diabetes/Neuropathy | High blood sugar damages nerves affecting temperature sensation. | Cold, numb, or tingling sensations in hands and feet. | Blood sugar management, medication, foot care. | Physical exam, nerve conduction studies. |
| Medication Side Effects | Certain drugs impact circulation or nerve function. | Cold sensations, especially when starting a new medication. | Discussing with a doctor to adjust dosage or switch medications. | Correlating symptom onset with medication usage. |
Conclusion
While a persistent feeling of cold is a common and often normal consequence of aging, it should not be ignored. By understanding the natural physiological changes and being aware of potential underlying medical conditions, caregivers and family members can take proactive steps to improve an elderly person's comfort and safety. Monitoring for signs of hypothermia and consulting a healthcare provider when symptoms are concerning is vital for ensuring your elderly mom's well-being. Simple environmental and lifestyle adjustments, combined with proper medical care, can make a significant difference in her quality of life.
Optional Outbound Link: For more comprehensive information on safe practices for older adults in colder weather, refer to the Cold Weather Safety for Older Adults guide from the National Institute on Aging.
