Seven Ways to Keep Warm in Winter For Senior
Dec 16, 2023
Smart Watch For Senior
In the cold winter, the elderly often experience cold hands and feet. This is due to the cold weather, slowed metabolism, and the tendency of blood vessels to constrict, leading to reduced blood flow. Here are seven methods to help keep the elderly warm.
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Increase Caloric Intake: In cold weather, the body expends more energy, requiring an appropriate increase in calorie intake, such as proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. To avoid excessive fat intake, it is advisable for the elderly to choose low-sugar, low-fat, high-calorie foods like fish, chicken, and legumes. Consuming "Three White Soup" made with white radish, scallions, and garlic, along with ginger tea, can enhance the body's ability to withstand the cold and improve blood circulation, preventing the deposition of fat in arteries and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
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Engage in Aerobic Exercise: As winter approaches, many elderly individuals tend to become sedentary, making them more susceptible to the cold. Seniors should engage in moderate aerobic exercises such as walking or swimming. Simple stretching exercises in bed before getting up, along with ankle rotations, can promote overall blood circulation.
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Dress Warmly: For elderly individuals with cervical spondylosis, throat diseases, or cardiovascular diseases, it is crucial to wear a hat and scarf when going outside and put on thick cotton or down jackets to prevent exposure of the head, neck, chest, and back to the cold, reducing the risk of disease recurrence. Accumulated cold in the abdominal and lumbar regions can slow blood circulation, making individuals prone to colds. Keeping the abdomen warm by gently patting it can radiate heat and dispel internal cold. For those experiencing cold knees, wearing knee pads can provide warmth to the joints.
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Keep Feet Warm: The feet are considered the "second heart" of the body, and cold air easily invades the body through the feet, affecting immunity. Seniors should choose warm and comfortable shoes like cotton shoes, avoiding shoes that dissipate heat quickly or have rigid materials. Soaking feet in warm water every night before bedtime can not only relax the entire body but also spread warmth from the feet throughout the body. Adding ingredients like mugwort, ginger, and cinnamon to the water can have a warming effect.
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Ventilation and Humidity: Heaters, air conditioners, electric blankets, and electric heaters are essential for keeping warm in winter, but prolonged use can reduce the body's ability to withstand the cold. Additionally, indoor dryness can lead to respiratory system diseases. It is recommended to open windows for ventilation one or two times a day. In the dry winter, rapid water loss from the body can lead to dry and cracked skin, affecting blood circulation and making seniors feel colder. Establishing a habit of drinking water regularly, rather than waiting until thirsty, is essential.
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Temperature Control: With significant temperature differences between indoor and outdoor environments in winter and poor ventilation, the elderly, who have poor temperature regulation capabilities, are prone to illnesses. It is suggested to maintain indoor temperatures between 18°C and 20°C, with a maximum not exceeding 26°C.
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Sun Exposure: Ideally, the elderly should spend time in the sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. This helps replenish vitamin D, enhances calcium absorption, prevents osteoporosis, and improves cold resistance.
As we prioritize the well-being of the elderly during the winter, modern technology, such as smartwatches, can play a crucial role in monitoring and enhancing their health. Smartwatches offer features like heart rate tracking and activity monitoring, ensuring that individuals maintain a healthy balance between staying warm and engaging in necessary physical activities.