Mohali :
Elderly people need to take special care of their health during seasonal changes, as sudden fluctuations in temperature can lead to health problems such as cold, cough, sore throat, respiratory issues, blood pressure fluctuations and joint pain, said Dr Isha Arora at Civil Hospital, Mohali.
Addressing patients on the occasion of International Day of Older Persons, Dr Arora emphasised that changes in weather require special attention to diet, medication and daily routines, particularly among senior citizens.
She said that the body’s ability to fight illnesses may weaken with age. Elderly people suffering from pre-existing conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease or respiratory ailments should be especially cautious during seasonal transitions.
Dr Arora advised senior citizens to wear clothes according to the weather and protect themselves from the cold during the morning and evening hours. She also stressed the importance of proper ventilation at home and avoiding excessive exposure to cold, dust and smoke.
Emphasising the role of nutrition, she said elderly people should consume a balanced and nutritious diet and maintain adequate water intake according to their age and medical advice. She advised them not to start or discontinue any medication without consulting a doctor and to undergo regular checks for blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
She further encouraged senior citizens to continue light exercise or walking according to their physical capacity. However, she cautioned that symptoms such as excessive fatigue, breathlessness, chest pain, persistent cough or fever, dizziness or sudden weakness should not be ignored, and immediate medical advice should be sought.
