What Are the Common Winter Problems Faced by Seniors?

Why Are Seniors More Vulnerable to Winter Diseases?

As we age, our bodies naturally become less efficient at regulating temperature and fighting off infections. Here’s why winter poses particular challenges for senior citizens:

Factually, our immunity weakens with age, making it even harder to ward off the various winter diseases that circulate from December to February.

Additionally, many seniors have reduced mobility, and they can’t go outside. That’s why they stay indoors. This leads to vitamin D deficiency and decreased physical activity.

During this winter, various winter problems and chronic conditions arise, including back pain, spondylitis, arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, stroke and more.

The body’s ability to sense and respond to temperature changes diminishes with age. This combination of factors makes winter a particularly vulnerable time for our senior population.

What Are the Most Common Winter Problems Affecting Seniors?

Let’s highlight the real winter season diseases affecting older adults and what you should watch out for:

Respiratory Infections and Complications

Respiratory infections and complications are among the most common winter illnesses we see. Winter is notorious for respiratory problems, and seniors are especially susceptible. Pneumonia remains one of the most serious winter diseases, particularly dangerous for those over 65.

You will see it starts with a simple cold that can quickly escalate into pneumonia, requiring immediate medical attention.

• Bronchitis, both acute and chronic, becomes more prevalent during the winter months. The winter air is dry, and it can irritate the airways, leading to inflammation and persistent coughing. For seniors with asthma, winter can trigger severe flare-ups, as cold, dry air constricts the airways more readily than warm air.
• Influenza, whilst common across all age groups, poses a significantly higher risk for seniors. Winter flu can be dangerous for older adults, leading to serious health complications, including pneumonia, and, in severe cases, being life-threatening for elderly individuals with compromised immune systems.

Cardiovascular Concerns

When it comes to winter, cardiovascular concerns follow immediately.
When exposed to wintry temperatures, the blood vessels constrict.
It raises blood pressure among older people. It causes the heart to pump blood harder throughout the body.

• Heart attacks are statistically more common during the winter months. The combination of cold weather, physical exertion (such as shovelling snow), and pre-existing heart conditions creates a perfect storm for cardiac events. Seniors with pre-existing heart conditions need to be particularly vigilant during this time.
• Poor circulation becomes more noticeable in winter, leading to cold extremities, numbness, and, in severe cases, increased risk of blood clots. This is especially concerning for seniors with diabetes or peripheral artery disease.

Joint and Bone Problems

Arthritis pain increases during winter, and many seniors come to Eskag Sanjeevani Hospitals, Kolkata, one of the leading hospitals, for the best medical care for joint pain, stiffness, and discomfort.

The cold weather can cause joint fluid to thicken, making movement more difficult and painful. This increased stiffness often leads to reduced mobility.

Skin and Dermatological Problems:

Winter air strips moisture from the skin. For seniors, whose skin is already thinner and produces less natural oils, this can lead to severely dry, cracked, and itchy skin. These cracks can become entry points for infections if not properly managed.

Eczema and psoriasis are two common dermatological conditions that cause discomfort in older adults. Moreover, any wounds or sores heal more slowly in winter.

Other Significant Winter Health Concerns

Hypothermia is a serious risk for elderly individuals, even in moderately cold conditions. Seniors realise they’re getting too cold, as their ability to sense temperature changes diminishes with age. Prolonged exposure to cold, even indoors in poorly heated homes, can lead to dangerously low body temperatures.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and depression are the most common winter diseases during the winter’s shorter days. The lack of sunlight affects mood swings. Social isolation can also be a reason for loneliness and depression.

Urinary tract infections tend to increase during winter diseases, possibly due to dehydration (seniors often drink less in cold weather) and reduced mobility.

What are the Warning Signs That Require Immediate medical Attention?

Seeking medical help from a reputable hospital is crucial. And that’s where our Eskag Sanjeevani Hospitals in Kolkata offer the best geriatric care. If your elderly loved one experiences any medical issues, don’t delay and consult the top experts. Here are the symptoms to check-

• Persistent cough lasting more than a week, especially if accompanied by chest
• pain or difficulty breathing
• Sudden shortness of breath or rapid breathing
• Confusion, disorientation, or unusual drowsiness
• Chest pain or pressure, particularly with exertion
• Severe shivering or a body temperature below 35°C (95°F)
• Inability to stay warm even in a heated environment
• Falls or difficulty walking due to joint stiffness
• Skin that doesn’t return to normal colour after pressing
• Persistent headaches or dizziness

If you notice any of these signs and are wondering where to find expert care, searching for a “medicine doctor near me” can help you locate immediate help.

Prevention is your Best Defence in Winter

Whilst we cannot control the weather, we can certainly take proactive steps to protect our senior loved ones from common diseases in the winter season:

• Maintaining a Warm Environment
• Proper layering in clothing
• Eating seasonal fruits, green vegetables
• Enough water during cold weather
• Morning walk
• Yoga and free-hand exercises
• Vaccinations for senior people

Expert Geriatric Care at Eskag Sanjeevani Hospitals

At Eskag Sanjeevani Hospitals, we understand the unique challenges that winter presents for our elderly patients. Our dedicated geriatric specialists specialise in providing compassionate care for seniors.

Our experienced physicians are trained to recognise and treat the subtle signs of winter diseases in elderly patients, ensuring early intervention and better outcomes. Specialised preventive health check-up packages for seniors during the winter months, helping identify potential problems before they become serious.

You will get state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and treatment options, and our 24/7 emergency care. Our ambulance service is also available around the clock. We assure you that our professional nurses, staff, and doctors are available when you need them. We take a holistic approach to older adults.

Book Your Appointment Today!

Whether you’re searching for a “medicine doctor near me” or seeking ongoing geriatric care, our team is here to provide expert attention. The cold weather doesn’t have to be a season of worry and health concerns for your elderly loved ones. With proper awareness, preventive measures, and access to quality medical care, seniors can navigate the colder months safely and comfortably.