In infants and the elderly, what is less present in the hypodermis that makes them sensitive to cold?

Infants and the elderly have a lower amount of adipose tissue in the hypodermis, which is the layer of skin located beneath the dermis. Adipose tissue serves as an insulator for the body, helping to retain heat. In both groups, reduced levels of this tissue mean that they are less able to maintain their body temperature in cold environments.

In infants, the lack of significant adipose tissue can make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature effectively because they have a higher surface area-to-volume ratio, leading to rapid heat loss. Similarly, the elderly often experience a natural decline in body fat with age, making them more susceptible to feeling cold. Without sufficient insulating adipose tissue, both infants and the elderly find it challenging to retain body heat, which contributes to their sensitivity to cold conditions.