The ability to perceive temperature decreases. Older people find it more difficult to tell when they are becoming chilled or overheated. There may be decreased tolerance to exercise. Many older people find that they become dizzy if they stand up too suddenly. The medications that are used to treat common disorders in the elderly may also have a profound effect on the vital signs.
Pain medications can affect breathing.
Fever is an important sign of illness in the elderly. Many times, fever is the only symptom of some illnesses for several days. Any fever that is not explained by a known illness should be investigated by the health care provider. Often, older people are unable to create a higher temperature with infection so very low temperatures and checking the other vital signs plays an important role in following these people for signs of infection. Heart rate and rhythm problems are fairly common in the elderly.