Temperatures in the Seattle area are expected to hover near freezing until Friday, a serious health hazard for the elderly. Hypothermia occurs when the core body temperature drops below 95 degrees. Our bodies become less efficient at regulating body temperature as we get older for various reasons. According to medical professionals at Aegis Living, there are simple options for preventing hypothermia.

Thursday was the coldest morning of the week in Western Washington, according to the National Weather Service. Thermometers in Bellevue hovered around 21 degrees Jan. 5.

Prevent hypothermia inside by encouraging aged adults to talk to their physician, keeping warm blankets and sweaters near, and making sure they have a working cell phone that alerts emergency response.

When outdoors, encourage your loved one to bundle up in multi-layer attire to protect them from the cold, moisture, and wind. During these cold months, it’s not advised for the elderly to work outside for long periods of time. Keep them safe!