Hypothermia and heat stroke: protecting the elderly patient.

Temperature regulation disorders in the elderly are both common and life-threatening, yet often go unrecognized. Diagnosis and appropriate management depend largely on a clinician's high index of suspicion. Reviewed are the reasons why the elderly are more susceptible to such disorders, important diagnostic clues, restorative treatments and, most important, practical measures to prevent elderly patients from being exposed to the extremes of heat and cold.