Senior News October, 2001 Vol. 20. No.  10

 

Published by the Humboldt Senior Resource Center in Eureka, California. HSRC is a non-profit community-based organization offering services for senior citizens, multi-generational families and caregivers.

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Hypothermia-in my own home?

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Hypothermia-in my own home?
by Linda Nellist

The national crisis is in the news and on our minds as we move into the fall season. But a smaller crisis also looms before us as we face the uncertainties of winter.

The American Red Cross is concerned about those who live alone and may already have health problems that affect the body's circulation. Even a small drop in temperature may cause discomfort if people are not prepared for it.
Hypothermia (a life-threatening lowering of body temperature because of exposure to the cold) can happen to anyone, even at home, if the thermostat is set too low. Keeping safe and warm in this season of changing weather means we all have to be aware of home heating hazards, dress appropriately and prepare for emergencies.

The Red Cross offers these suggestions for preventing hypothermia, especially if you already have circulation problems:

* Wear mittens-they provide more warmth than gloves.
* Wear a hat-most of your body heat is lost through your head. Wear a soft "sleeping cap" to bed and non-binding socks to add extra warmth.
* Dress in layers to stay warm-you can always remove a layer. Wear waterproof insulated boots or shoes to keep your feet warm and dry outdoors.
* Get out of wet clothes immediately. Increase body core temperature by drinking hot fluids like hot cider, tea or soup.
* Check yourself and companions for signs of hypothermia or frostbite. Both are serious medical conditions. Look for severe shivering, dizziness, and skin changes such as unusual gray, white or yellow patches on exposed areas. Seek medical attention immediately if you have these symptoms.

Call the Humboldt County Chapter, 443-4521, for a free copy of the "Emergency Checklist" brochure or stop by the
office at 406 Eleventh Street (corner of 11th & E St.). Also take a look at our web site, www. northcoast.com/~hcarc, for links to preparedness information.

The American Red Cross is dedicated to helping make families and communities safer. As a humanitarian organization led by volunteers, the Humboldt County Chapter offers disaster assistance, emergency preparedness education, health and safety classes and service to military families who experience family emergencies.

Linda Nellist is chapter associate for the local Red Cross office. Her e-mail is hcarc@ northcoast.com; call 443-4521 for more information.