Khaberni - The general practitioner, Elise Dallas, detailed the possible reasons for the increased feeling of coldness as one ages, offering some solutions to stay warm during the winter season.
Slowing of the metabolic process
The slowing down of the metabolic process contributes to the increased feeling of coldness as one ages.
Dallas explained that the metabolic rate slows down with age due to a decrease in lean muscle mass and hormonal changes.
Additionally, thyroid function declines, which reduces the metabolic rate and heat production, according to the "Independent" newspaper.
She added that changes in the adrenal glands affect hormones and cortisol levels, impacting the balance of energy and the regulation of body heat.
Loss of muscle and fat
Individuals lose much of their muscle and fat due to aging, which diminishes the body's ability to retain heat.
Dallas explained that "muscle mass decreases, which reduces heat production, while subcutaneous fat decreases, weakening thermal insulation, and fats move from the limbs to central areas of the body, affecting the warmth of the limbs."
Poor blood circulation
Dallas pointed out that aging makes blood vessels more rigid and less responsive to vasodilation. Also, blood circulation in the limbs slows down, which hinders heat delivery and weakens the regulation of blood flow through the autonomic nervous system.
She affirmed that all these factors make maintaining warmth a difficult process.
Chronic diseases
Chronic diseases such as hypothyroidism, anemia, and diabetes increase cold sensitivity in the elderly and affect the body's ability to produce and distribute heat.
The doctor explained that hypothyroidism reduces basal heat production, while anemia affects the delivery of oxygen to tissues.
She added that diabetes can cause peripheral neuropathy and vascular damage, weakening heat sensation. Heart failure also hinders blood flow to the skin and limbs.
Additional factors
These factors include "thinning skin, weakened sweat gland function, and decreased physical activity, which reduce the body's ability to feel and respond to cold," according to the doctor.
How to stay warm in winter
Dallas recommends wearing heavy clothing, hats, gloves, and socks.
She advises setting the home temperature at at least 20 degrees Celsius, using electric blankets or hot water bottles, and ensuring windows and doors are closed.
It's also important to eat warm meals regularly, drink enough water, and maintain physical activity indoors to stimulate blood circulation.
