As several parts of the nation are in the midst of bitter winter weather, with reports of more rough weather on the way, the government has a warning: Chilly air and blustery winds can be deadly cold, especially for older people who are at higher risk for hypothermia.

Hypothermia is a below-normal body temperature, typically 96 Fahrenheit or lower. Surprisingly, hypothermia can threaten the health of older people in cool indoor temperatures such as 60 F to 65 F. As people age, they may lose their natural ability to keep warm in the cold, and inactivity, illness and certain medications make it even more difficult, according to the National Institute on Aging (NIA).

"It is important to know some older people may have a dangerous drop in body temperature inside their own home," said Dr. Terrie Wetle, deputy director of the NIA.

Signs of hypothermia include any unusual change in behavior, confusion, sleepiness, clumsiness, slurred speech and shallow breathing.

Hypothermia can be prevented. The NIA recommends if you are an older person you should:

• Find out if you are at risk. Ask your doctor if the prescription or over-the-counter drugs you take can affect body temperature regulation.

• Dress warmly in layers of clothing even when indoors. Hypothermia can occur in bed, so wear warm clothing to bed and use blankets.

• Ask friends or neighbors to look in once or twice a day if you live at alone. See if your local community has a telephone check-in personal visit service.

• Use alcohol moderately, if at all. And avoid alcohol altogether near bedtime.

• Eat hot foods and drink hot liquids to raise your body temperature and keep warm.

• Set the thermostat in your home to at least 68 F-70 F in living or sleeping areas. Ask your doctor if you should set your thermostat higher.

• Look into fuel-assistance programs and home winterization programs. Your local utility company or area office on aging has an assistance program.

For more information, visit www.nih.gov/nia.