Ms. Patricia J. Donnelly

Patricia J. Donnelly, Public Health Educator

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Patricia Donnelly, Public Health Educator with the Chester County Health Department, advises, "winter chill can cause body temperature to drop below 960F, (hypothermia) which can be deadly if not identified quickly and treated properly."

It is of special concern to seniors who often have illnesses or take medications which can interfere with the body's ability to regulate temperature.Certain medicines can increase the risk of accidental hypothermia.These include drugs used to treat anxiety, depression, or nausea, and some over-the-counter cold remedies.Your doctor or pharmacist can inform you how certain medicines which you take may affect your body temperature.Alcoholic beverages also interfere with the body's ability to retain heat.

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"Increased awareness is the most effective way to prevent and treat accidental hypothermia", says Donnelly.Drink plenty of water to keep from getting dehydrated - dehydration is a major contributor to hypothermia.When outdoors, it is recommended that you dress in several layers of loosely fitting clothing with a tightly woven, wind-resistant outer layer and wool, silk, or polypropylene inner layers to hold body heat.Indoors, seniors must keep room temperatures sufficiently warm (at least 700 F), dress appropriately, and use extra blankets and warm nightclothes in bed. People with low incomes and little savings often keep temperatures in the dangerously cool range (600 F- 650 F) in an effort to keep heating bills down.

Help is available for low-income individuals and families who may qualify for the Low Income Heating Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), sponsored by the Chester County Welfare Office.To find out if you qualify, call (610) 466-1042.
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For additional information, contact Pat Donnelly, Public Health Educator at the Chester County Health Department, 610 344-6259.

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Patricia J. Donnelly, Public Health Educator

Cold Weather Can Be Risky For Older People

Cold weather can be risky for everyone, but older people are at greater risk.Chester County Public Health Educator, Patricia Donnelly, advises, "winter chill can cause body temperature to drop below 960F (hypothermia) which can be deadly if not identified quickly and treated properly."
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"Increased awareness is the most effective way to prevent and treat accidental hypothermia", says Ms. Donnelly.
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For additional information, contact Pat Donnelly, Public Health Educator at the Chester County Health Department, 610 344-6259.

Pat Donnelly, health educator with the Chester County Health Department, has some gift ideas for senior citizens.
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Donnelly also reminds everyone that the best gift that you can give an older friend or relative is the gift of time.Consider making a coupon book with planned outings and visitors.

Pat Donnelly, Commissioner, Term Expires ?