Cold Touches the Lives and Health of Our Elders

These days, as the season changes and the mornings and evenings turn cold, my clinic starts to fill up with familiar faces, elderly patients walking in, wrapped in layers, carrying stories of aching joints, sleepless nights and the quiet fatigue that winter brings. Many others who cannot step out call for teleconsultations. It’s always the same worry beneath different complaints: the changing season has begun to show its effects.

Winter in Kashmir is not just about snow and warmth from a kangri; it’s about how the ageing body responds to the cold, often silently. Age slows down metabolism and reduces the body’s ability to regulate temperature, what we call impaired thermoregulation. Many seniors feel colder even in a heated room. Poor circulation, low thyroid function and general frailty make them vulnerable. Keeping them warm is not just about thicker blankets, but about balanced nutrition, mild activity and awareness.

Bone and Joints

Joint pains are among the first complaints I hear as temperatures drop. The science is simple, cold weather causes muscles to tighten and blood vessels to constrict, leading to stiffness and discomfort, especially in those with arthritis. Yet, many myths persist: some stop walking completely, fearing “wear and tear.” In truth, gentle movement, simple walking, safe indoor exercises and warmth therapy like hot compresses can ease stiffness far better than inactivity. The key is moderation, overexertion harms, but inactivity harms more.

Effect of cold on mind

Winter doesn’t just numb the body; it can dim the spirit. A number of my elderly patients feel unusually low, anxious, or withdrawn as sunlight decreases. This is more than moodiness, it’s a clinical phenomenon known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Less sunlight means reduced serotonin levels, affecting mood and sleep. Encouraging seniors to sit near a sunny window, take short morning walks when possible, or simply spend time in company can make a world of difference. Family members should notice subtle changes, loss of appetite, withdrawal from conversation, or irritability. They need to respond with warmth, not judgment.

Skin and winter

Many older people underestimate what winter dryness does to their skin. Thin ageing skin loses moisture quickly, leading to cracks, itching, and sometimes infections. The solution is not expensive creams but regular hydration and mild oiling. Lukewarm baths, gentle soaps, and drinking enough water go a long way. Which brings me to an often-ignored issue, winter dehydration.

Water still matters

In winter, thirst naturally decreases. Seniors often forget to drink water, thinking they don’t need it. Yet dehydration can thicken the blood, raise blood pressure, strain the kidneys and even trigger confusion in frail elders. Warm soups, herbal teas, kehwa and simple reminders to sip water regularly (up to 4 pm) can prevent many complications.

Sometimes cough needs attention

A seasonal cough can mean different things in older adults. While younger people bounce back easily, for seniors it may signal worsening COPD, pneumonia, or even heart failure. The warning signs are subtle, breathlessness on mild exertion, swelling in legs, or fatigue. Families must avoid self-medication and seek timely medical advice.

Indoor heating safely

Kashmiri homes are full of warmth, both literal and emotional, but indoor heating carries hidden dangers. Kangris, gas heaters and coal bukhari without ventilation can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Seniors, especially those with heart or lung conditions, are most at risk. Safe heating means ensuring ventilation, avoiding overnight use of closed heaters, and regular safety checks. Electric blankets should be used with care, especially in diabetics with reduced sensation.

Restless nights

Sleep disturbances rise in winter, longer nights, less sunlight and low room temperatures disturb the body’s natural rhythm. Seniors often complain of waking too early or feeling unrested. Maintaining a regular bedtime, using warm but breathable bedding, and avoiding heavy late dinners can help restore sleep. A brief exposure to morning light resets the biological clock and lifts mood naturally.

Morning heart attack phenomenon

Studies show a rise in heart attacks during cold winter mornings. The reasons lie in cold-induced vasoconstriction, blood vessels narrow, blood pressure spikes and the heart works harder. Early morning exertion, such as fetching water or rushing for prayers in the cold, can strain an ageing heart. A simple precaution: take your time, warm up gently, and never ignore chest discomfort, heart burn and breathlessness no matter how mild.

Foot care

Cold weather and reduced circulation can make the feet numb, especially in diabetics. This increases the risk of unnoticed injuries or infections. Regular inspection, warm socks (not tight ones) and moisturized skin prevent cracks and sores.

Winter nutrition

The Kashmiri kitchen can offer the best winter medicine, fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, fish, lean meat, eggs and dry fruits. A balanced diet rich in protein and healthy fats keeps muscles strong and immunity active. However, moderation is key, too much salt, especially from Noon Chai or pickles, can worsen hypertension. Avoid table added salt, direct sugars and fatty food.

Most important care from adult children

No article on winter health is complete without mentioning emotional warmth. The elderly are most vulnerable not only to cold but to loneliness. Checking on ageing parents, sitting with them during tea, or sharing old memories adds more warmth than any kangri can.

Sadly, elder neglect often becomes more visible in winters, when warm homes still feel emotionally cold. A little attention, a short visit, or even a phone call can melt that silence.