Winter Edition: Moul Mouj Health Corner

Q: My 80-year-old mother wakes up with stiff fingers every morning. Is this winter-related?

A: Yes. Cold air stiffens joints, especially in arthritis. Warm water soaks, gentle hand exercises, and gloves at night help. If swelling or severe pain occurs, seek medical advice.

Q: My father (78) says his legs feel heavy and slow in winter. Why does this happen?

A: Winter reduces blood flow and tightens muscles. Short indoor walks, leg stretches and warm clothing improve circulation. Check Vitamin D if the heaviness persists.

Q: My grandmother eats very little in winter. Should we worry?

A: Appetite commonly drops in cold weather, but elders can become weak quickly. Offer small, warm, frequent meals like soups, porridge, eggs and cooked fruits. Rule out depression, dental issues or thyroid imbalance.

Q: My father’s sugar levels increase in winter even when diet is same. Why?

A: Less activity, more comfort foods, and winter hormonal changes can raise blood sugar. Encourage post-meal indoor walks, warm water intake, and regular monitoring.

Q: Should seniors reduce water intake in winter?

A: No. Dehydration is more common in winter because seniors don’t feel thirsty. Give warm water, soups, kehwa and fruits.

Q: My mother feels her heart beating fast after coming in from the cold. Is this dangerous?

A: Sudden temperature change can raise heart rate and BP temporarily. The process of warming up after being in the cold requires increased heart activity to circulate warmed blood throughout the body. Keep her covered, avoid rushing and let her warm up gradually indoors. If palpitations persist, get a check-up.

Q: My elderly father slips often in winter. How do we prevent falls?

A: Use anti-slip footwear, keep floors dry, improve lighting and avoid rushed walking. Seniors lose balance faster in cold weather, slow movement is key.

Q: My 85-year-old grandmother gets constipated every winter. What helps?

A: Reduced water intake and low activity cause winter constipation. Encourage warm fluids, fibre-rich foods, soaked raisins and short indoor walks. Avoid overuse of laxatives.

Q: My father complains of cracked heels and dry skin. Is this age or winter?

A: Both. Use warm water for bathing, moisturize daily, wear socks and avoid harsh soaps. If cracks bleed or hurt, check for diabetes.

Q: My mother’s BP fluctuates a lot in cold months. Is this common?

A: Yes. Cold weather naturally increases BP. Monitor regularly, keep her warm, and avoid sudden exposure to cold air. Consult a doctor for dose adjustments if needed.

Q: My grandfather sleeps too much in winter. Should we be worried?

A: Longer sleep, low energy and reduced sunlight can cause winter sluggishness. Morning sunlight, routine walks and hydration help. Excessive sleepiness needs medical evaluation.

Q: My elderly mother keeps feeling sad and lonely in winter. What can we do?

A: Long, dark evenings worsen loneliness in seniors. Talk to her daily, engage her in prayer, hobbies, calls with relatives and indoor family time. Persistent sadness may be seasonal depression.

Q: My father says he feels “pins and needles” in his feet more often in cold. Why?

A: Cold worsens nerve sensitivity. Diabetes, vitamin B12 deficiency, and nerve compression also contribute. Keep feet warm and check sugar and B12 levels.

Q: Are heaters and electric blankets safe for elderly people?

A: Safe if used carefully. Keep heaters away from flammable items, avoid sleeping with electric blankets on, and never leave heaters unattended. Seniors with numbness may not feel burns.

Q: My grandmother avoids bathing in winter. How to encourage hygiene?

A: Use warm bathrooms, quick baths and warm towels. Twice weekly bathing is enough if daily face, hands, and private areas are cleaned. Avoid cold floors and cold drafts.

Q: My father feels dizzy every time he bends down in winter. Why?

A: Blood pressure changes and dehydration worsen in cold months. Encourage slow movements and adequate fluids. If dizziness is frequent, get a medical review.

Note: These responses are for general awareness. Always consult a doctor for medical advice specific to your health.

Ask your questions at:

WhatsApp: 6005463346,

Email: ask@moulmoujfoundation.org