Hypothermia in the geriatric population

Abstract

Hypothermia is common in the geriatric population and its significance perhaps under-recognized. Hypothermia is associated with substantial morbidity and fatality, but to some extent is preventable provided caregivers and providers of healthcare to older adults adopt preventive measures to lower its occurrence. Hypothermia occurs in both cold and warm settings; its pathogenesis involves alterations in the age-related physiology of thermoregulation, along with a variable combination of environmental factors, disease processes and medications, many of which are recognizable. Once diagnosed, treatment must be prompt and aggressive, and must consider several options for rewarming. Education of healthcare providers regarding early recognition of hypothermia and a better understanding of preventive and treatment measures will undoubtedly lower complications of hypothermia in affected elderly.