Why Older Adults Often Feel Cold and How Dementia Exacerbates the Problem
Dear Carol: I’m a menopausal caregiver who is trying to balance my mom’s comfort with mine. She lives with me and has mild dementia symptoms, so I want to learn more about how to manage her needs. Still, I have my own comfort to consider and I’m always roasting. During the summer when we used air conditioning, Mom was freezing even with it set at 75 degrees. Now, with the furnace running, she’s cold even when I’ve turned the heat up beyond what’s bearable for me. Could you explain why she’s so cold (I know why I’m so hot!). Any suggestions on how to keep her warm without turning the heat up to 80 degrees? Thanks for your help. – KJ
Dear KJ: You have a ton of company with this struggle. That’s because most caregivers are decades younger than the older adults they are helping. Add in menopausal sweats, and being hot can be a constant irritant. Believe it or not, one day…
Discover the Difference. EGOSAN: The premium incontinence brand caregivers love – Now Available on Amazon.
Geriatrician Opens Support Group to New Members Year-Around: https://betterhealthwhileaging.mykajabi.com/hop-aging-parents-webinar-signup
Support a caregiver or jump-start discussion in support groups with real stories – for bulk orders of Minding Our Elders e-mail Carol
