Why Do Elderly People Report Feeling an Unnatural Coldness?
As our loved ones age, they often find themselves feeling cold, even in comfortable temperatures. This common issue among elderly individuals can be perplexing and concerning, especially when their surroundings are warm and cozy. Is the feeling of coldness a result of age-related physical changes or psychological factors? In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this sensation and provide insight for family members and caregivers.
Why Older Individuals Often Feel Cold
When my mother, who is 87 years old, had her new boiler installed, she initially reported feeling very cold despite the flat being at a comfortable 22 degrees Celsius. She had become accustomed to a warm glow, which she described as a red light, throughout her life. As a younger person, she used to have an open fire, and later, a gas fire. This scenario illustrates how psychological factors can contribute to the perception of coldness, as she associates warmth with the warmth of light.
Physical Changes with Age
However, much of the feeling of coldness in elderly individuals is rooted in physical changes associated with aging. As you age—especially in advanced age—your body's ability to perceive ambient temperatures diminishes. Your ability to retain body heat also decreases, making you more susceptible to feeling chilly. Additionally, your body's ability to sweat, a natural mechanism for regulating temperature, also diminishes. These factors contribute to the common perception of coldness among older adults.
The Role of Circulation and Vascular System
Your vascular system also plays a crucial role in regulating body temperature. In younger years, your blood vessels dilate and contract efficiently in response to temperature changes, ensuring that heat is distributed properly. However, as you age, this system becomes less efficient, leading to poorer circulation, particularly in the extremities. This means that your hands, feet, and other extremities may feel cold, even when the overall temperature is comfortable.
Psychological Factors and Physical Reality
It's important to differentiate between feeling cold due to physical changes and feeling cold due to psychological factors. In nursing homes or other care facilities, an elderly person may assume that feeling uncomfortable or hot is associated with a change in temperature, but they may not be able to accurately determine what that temperature is. This confusion can lead to overvesting or underdressing, exacerbating the sensation of coldness.
End-of-Life Changes and Coldness
But what about the perception of coldness as one approaches the end of life? When my older sister was nearing the end, she experienced a distinct change as her extremities began to feel cold. After she passed away, her entire body gradually cooled, and her extremities became particularly cold and hard, similar to cement. The color drained from her face, a sign of the body’s cooling process.
It's crucial to understand that a dramatic drop in body temperature is a sign of hypothermia or death and is not a result of simple aging. The only significant change in body temperature is due to the cessation of biological processes, not the natural aging process. If you notice a sudden and dramatic drop in body temperature, it is a cause for immediate medical attention.
Conclusion and Practical Advice
The sense of coldness in elderly individuals is often a combination of psychological and physical factors. While physical changes are significant contributors, psychological factors can also play a role. Understanding these factors can help family members and caregivers provide better care and support. If a loved one is feeling consistently cold despite comfortable temperatures, it may be a sign of a physical issue that needs to be addressed. Always consult with a healthcare professional for a proper assessment and care plan.