The rate of breathing usually does not change. Many older people find that they need to wear layers of clothing in order to feel warm. Keeping cool is also more difficult. Skin changes include reduced ability to sweat and elderly people become overheated quicker. 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.