Comparison of Self-identified Thermal Tolerance and Wearing Habits in Winter between the Elderly Males and Females

This study investigated elderly winter wearing habits and self-identified thermal tolerance in order to compare differences between older males and older females. We surveyed 269 participants: 119 males (age 76.9 ±5.9 yr) and 150 females (age 76.1±5.7 yr). Thirty one questionnaires were used: Self-identified cold and heat tolerance, clothing behavior, lifestyles related to the cold and health care, etc. High percentage of respondents (both males and females) felt vulnerable to the cold. The total number of outdoor clothes were 9.6 ±1.6 and 10.6±1.6 in males and females, respectively (p<.05). Wearing frequencies for thermal underwear were 84.0% and 82.4% in males and females, respectively. The using percentage of auxiliary heating devices was higher in females compared to males (p<.01). Males felt more cold in the head and face compared to females (p<.01). Self-identified cold tolerance had negative relationships with the total number of winter outdoor clothes for both males (r=−0.260) and females (r=−0.222) (p<.01). The perceived old age for both males and females was 72.4 yr. Sex differences should be considered when developing guidelines for winter clothing behavior for the elderly and educating them on how to improve health and cold tolerance.