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As people age, they often experience increased sensitivity to cold due to a slower metabolism, reduced muscle and fat insulation and naturally declining circulation. Chronic health conditions like hypothyroidism, anaemia, and diabetes can exacerbate cold sensitivity by impairing the body's ability to generate and distribute heat. Side effects from common medications, including diuretics, antidepressants, vasodilators, and beta-blockers, can also contribute to feeling colder by affecting thermoregulation and blood flow. Other age-related factors such as thinner skin, reduced sweat gland function, lower physical activity, and an impaired hypothalamic response further diminish the body's ability to sense and respond to cold. To stay warm, older adults are advised to wear thermal layers, maintain indoor temperatures of at least 20°C, use heated blankets, insulate their homes, eat regular warm meals, stay hydrated, and remain active indoors.
