Older people who lower the thermostat to cut heating bills raise their risk of hypothermia, a potentially fatal condition in which the body’s temperature drops for a prolonged period, says a National Institute on Aging (NIA) scientist. Hypothermia (hi-po-ther-mee-uh) can occur when the body’s temperature drops below 96° F (35.5° C), down from the body’s usual temperature of 98.6° F (37° C). Even a couple of degrees can have a devastating effect if not noticed quickly and treated properly.

Hypothermia is a particular problem for older people who suffer from such conditions as arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, thyroid deficiency, stroke, and Parkinson’s disease, or take medications such as tranquilizers, sleeping pills, or antidepressants.

People over 60 should set their thermostat at 68°F - 70°F in living or sleeping areas to avoid hypothermia. If the thermostat is set in the 60s, dress warmly, or if possible, stay under an electric blanket. To meet these increased energy needs, low-income seniors may be eligible for federal fuel assistance or winterization programs.