How to Keep Feet Warm in the Winter

It’s natural to feel chilly during the colder months of winter – but many older people suffer particularly from a feeling of cold in their feet.

In addressing cold feet in the elderly, it’s important to consider what causes cold feet in the first place. In this article, we’ll do just that. Then we’ll discuss how an older person can warm up their feet safely to feel cosier and more comfortable.

What are the causes of cold feet in the elderly?

Yes, feet will generally become cold in cold weather. But there are often other causes at play when an older person suffers from persistently cold feet.

One main one is circulation. Since the hands and feet are farthest from the heart, it’s more difficult for blood to reach them. And when a senior has conditions like heart disease or hardened arteries, their blood circulates less effectively, leaving their hands and feet colder.

Moreover, when a person’s body temperature drops, the body keeps more blood in a person’s core so that their essential organs still work. That results in colder extremities.

An older person who is very thin might also have cold feet due to a lack of fat. And diabetes can affect the feet, too.

However, it’s also possible that these causes aren’t at play. Some people just tend to have colder feet. So, if you’re concerned about why you or an older loved one have cold feet, it’s best to check with your doctor.

A note of caution

When we think of warming up cold feet, a hot water bottle might be the first solution that comes to mind.

Surprisingly, doctors sometimes warn against the use of such heating products with the elderly. This is because of changes in an older person’s body.

Firstly, elderly people may not sense changes in temperature as sensitively. They could end up with mild burns because they were unable to feel that their skin was too hot.

Older people also respond less effectively to changes and extremes of heat. So, they’re more apt to become overheated – and they may not realise it’s happening.

All of these issues are worse for a person with dementia who may be unable to recognise or express their discomfort.

Long story short – consider safety around using hot water bottles, electric heating pads or similar devices.

Good ways to keep feet warm

One way to keep feet warm is simply to get up and walk around. Walking generally warms up the body, so it should help warm up the feet as well.

Another tip is to keep feet elevated. This will mean they’re not on a cold floor, and it should help with circulation if that’s a problem.

Socks – especially wool ones – can be helpful, of course. But you’ll want socks that aren’t tight in a way that restricts circulation. For an older person with diabetes or who tends to have oedema of the ankles, diabetes-friendly socks could be a good solution. These are socks that are usually made wider and without tight, restrictive tops.

Some shops also sell plush, pillow-like “foot warmers” that you can put your feet into – sort of like a slipper for both feet at once. These could be a good option. There are also versions of foot warmers that are electrically heated, but these may not be the best choice for the same reasons explained above.

Lastly, you’ll want to keep the rest of your body warm, too. That could mean dressing in layers, drinking warm drinks, and eating sufficiently to fuel your body. And make sure that you receive the Winter Fuel Payment if you are entitled to it.

Dangers of cold feet in the winter

We’ve mentioned that wearing socks is a simple yet effective way of keeping feet warm. But you’ll want to take caution that what you’re wearing on your feet isn’t slippery on a hard floor. So, be sure to also wear slippers with a gripping sole.

Numbness in the feet, whether it’s due to cold or not, also raises a person’s risk of falling. Because falls in the elderly are so serious, it’s important to take measures against falls and have a plan in place in case one does occur.

You can take steps to fall-proof your home and exercise to strengthen your body’s muscles and balance. But there is no way to absolutely prevent a fall – so an older person should also have an elderly personal alarm that can be used to call for help if needed.

It’s important that a senior gets help as soon as possible after a fall – especially if they are unable to get up on their own. Otherwise, they could suffer a “long lie” – a period of an hour or more lying on the floor – which can have grave health effects of its own. A “long lie” can lead to hypothermia, pressure sores, and decreased confidence in walking, among other issues.

A personal alarm helps an older person to get help fast because it’s always at hand, even in the shower. Models with a one-touch SOS button allow the wearer to call for help instantly, just by touching a button. And alarms with fall detection even try to detect falls and send out alerts automatically.

With a SureSafe alarm, you can decide whether the call for help should go to family and friends or an expert response centre.

Warm feet and safety for seniors

Why do we know so much about elderly care? Because at SureSafe, older people’s safety is paramount. We’re dedicated to providing affordable, easy-to-use and effective personal alarms to customers throughout the UK. And our great reviews show just what our years of experience have taught us.

Curious about getting a personal alarm for yourself or an older loved one? We’re happy to help discuss what type of alarm is best for you. You can call us at 0808 189 1671, talk to us through live chat, or request a call back.