Is oral temp of 100.9 a cause for worry in a 96 year old?

The elderly have a decreased ability to generate body heat, which is why they often complain of it being cold when everyone else is comfortable. This also means that a temp lower than 100.9 might bring fever symptoms and complications in an older person. In addition, older folks are more prone to dehydration which is the main complication resulting from prolonged fever.

With those factors in mind, any temperature over 99.1 in an elderly patient warrants close observation and the implementation of treatment measures to prevent dehydration, such as increased fluid intake and possibly even IV therapy.

If any fever lasts for more than three days, is unrelieved by common measures, or worsens, contact your physician.