Winter Wellness: Keeping Your Loved One Comfortable in Cold Weather
As the winter season unfolds, the chill in the air can bring about specific challenges for those in hospice care. The cold weather not only affects the physical comfort of hospice patients but also has implications for their overall well-being. And even though your loved one likely stays at home most of the time, there are still factors to consider for keeping them comfortable in their house and while transporting them to doctor appointments (or even just to help them get out of the house for a little while!). In this article, we will explore various strategies to ensure that your loved one remains comfortable and well-cared for during the colder months.
Understanding the Impact of Cold Weather
The winter season can exacerbate certain health conditions, particularly in the elderly and those in palliative care. Lower temperatures can lead to increased joint pain, dry skin, and respiratory problems. Additionally, the lack of sunlight during winter can affect mood, potentially leading to feelings of sadness or depression, commonly known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Keeping Warm: The First Line of Defense
1. Layered Clothing:
Dressing your loved one in layers is more effective than a single heavy garment. Layers trap body heat and can be easily added or removed to regulate temperature. Soft, breathable fabrics like cotton are ideal for the layer closest to the skin. consider slippers or multiple pairs of socks around the house, as their feet may get cold or slip out from under the covers.
2. Warm Accessories:
Don’t forget hats, scarves, and socks. A significant amount of body heat is lost through the head, so a comfortable hat can make a big difference, even just around the house.
3. Adjusting Room Temperature:
Keep the living space comfortably warm without overheating. An ideal room temperature is around 68-72°F (20-22°C). If your loved one is confined to one room, consider using a portable heater with automatic shut-off features for safety- preferably one with a remote so your loved one can adjust the temperature from their bed or the couch.
Moisturizing and Skin Care
1. Preventing Dry Skin:
Winter air can be dry, exacerbating skin dryness. Use a gentle, unscented moisturizer on your loved one’s skin, especially after bathing. Avoid long hot water baths as they can strip away natural oils.
2. Hydration:
Internal hydration is as important as external moisturizing. Encourage your loved one to drink enough fluids. If they find plain water unappealing, try herbal teas or flavored water.
3. Humidifiers:
Consider using a humidifier in the room where your loved one spends most of their time. This can help add moisture to the dry winter air, benefiting both their skin and respiratory system.
Combating Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
1. Maximizing Natural Light:
Exposure to natural light can significantly impact mood. Keep curtains open during the day and try to position your loved one’s bed or chair near a window.
2. Light Therapy:
- For those severely affected by SAD or when the sun is behind storm clouds for days at a time, light therapy lamps can be an effective treatment. They simulate sunlight and have been shown to improve mood in some individuals.
3. Staying Socially Connected:
Encourage visits from family and friends. Social interaction can help combat feelings of isolation and depression that are more common in winter. For other mental health support for you or your loved one, reach out to your assigned social worker or our spiritual care coordinator for assistance.
Further Reading
For more inspiration on how you can make your home cozier for your loved one, check out some of our other articles: