Taking a bath seems like a simple, everyday act. Yet, after a certain age, this ritual can become risky if done at the wrong time. Our bodies change over time: circulation slows, blood pressure fluctuates, and temperature regulation becomes more difficult. So, when should you avoid a morning shower? Here’s what geriatric experts advise.
Very early in the morning: a risky time
Between 5 a.m. and 8 a.m., the body is barely awake. Body temperature is still low, blood pressure may be unstable, and the nervous system is not fully awake.
Suddenly plunging into hot (or cold) water at this time can cause thermal shock: the heart races, breathing changes, and this can lead to dizziness, loss of balance, or faintness.
Experts therefore recommend avoiding this time slot, especially if you live alone or if you have already experienced dizziness.
Why does the body react this way?
During the night, the body slows down to rest. Upon waking, it needs some time to regain its full activity. Abruptly going from a state of rest to exposure to hot water disrupts this delicate balance.
In seniors, this reaction can be amplified by: