PNS | DEHRADUN
The rate of sudden deaths among senior citizens rises by an average of 10 to 15 per cent in the winter season, according to doctors. Asthma, blood pressure and the risk of heart attacks increase during this time, particularly for the elderly. Experts note that blood vessels constrict in colder weather, leading to an uptick in asthma attacks, heart problems and other health issues that can ultimately result in fatalities.
Speaking on this matter, the medical superintendent at Deen Dayal Upadhyay District Hospital Dr V S Chauhan said that elderly individuals, who often have weakened immune systems, tend to become more sedentary during the winter months. “This lack of physical activity can impact blood circulation and make the seniors more susceptible to heart problems, including heart attacks,” he warned.
During the winter season, senior citizens with diabetes, asthma and infections are at higher risk, leading to an increase in death rates for this age- group.
Compared to the summer season, there is an average 10-12 per cent rise in senior citizen mortality in winter due to a sedentary lifestyle. It is thus crucial for the elderly to prioritise their health during the colder months by staying physically active indoors and adhering to their prescribed medications for conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes, he said.
Another physician at the district hospital Dr Praveen Panwar said that he would encounter a rise in cases of asthma, heart issues and other ailments among the seniors in the winter months. “Given my professional experiences, the death rate for senior citizens rises by 10-15 per cent in winter compared to summer,” he noted.
To counter things, the senior citizens should increase their water intake, engage in more physical activities and ensure timely consumption of medication for blood pressure, diabetes and other conditions, he said, adding that they are advised to include antioxidants in their diet during the winter season.
