The National Institutes of Health offer the following tips to help older people avoid hypothermia:
When going outside in the cold, it is important to wear a hat, scarf, and gloves or mittens to prevent loss of body heat through your head and hands. Also consider letting someone know you're going outdoors and carry a fully charged cellphone. A hat is particularly important because a large portion of body heat can be lost through the head. Wear several layers of loose clothing to help trap warm air between the layers.
Check with your doctor to see if any prescription or over-the-counter medications you are taking may increase your risk for hypothermia.
Make sure your home is warm enough. Some experts suggest that, for older people, the temperature be set to at least 68 degrees.
To stay warm at home, wear long underwear, socks and slippers. Use a blanket or afghan to keep your legs and shoulders warm and wear a hat or cap indoors.