Winter can be challenging due to the dark, cold and tricky weather conditions. Older adults are more vulnerable to the effects of the colder months because their bodies are less efficient at retaining heat. They’re also more likely to be susceptible to seasonal bugs and flu and are at higher risk of trips and falls in slippery conditions.
In this article, we’ll cover some essential winter safety advice to help keep your loved ones warm and well this winter.
Staying warm
Keeping the house warm and at a constant and comfortable temperature is important to prevent older adults from suffering from the cold.
Age UK recommends heating the rooms your loved one uses most to around 18°C. To help save on energy bills, avoid heating rooms that aren’t used—such as spare bedrooms. Turn off the radiators in these rooms and keep the doors closed.
Layer up
Wearing a few layers of thinner clothing is more efficient at trapping warm air than wearing one thick layer. Check that your loved one has the right clothing to help them stay warm in the colder months.
Warm nightwear, thick socks and extra blankets can prevent your loved one from getting cold at night.
Staying active
Encouraging your loved one to stay active during the winter is beneficial for keeping them warm and maintaining their strength and mobility. Older adults should avoid sitting still for more than an hour at a time. If getting out of the house isn’t safe or possible, some light activity around the home—or even armchair exercises— can help stave off the cold.
Eating well
Eating a varied and nutritious diet is crucial to ensuring your loved one has the energy to keep warm and battle winter germs. They should try to eat fruit and vegetables daily. Frozen or tinned options can be suitable alternatives to fresh produce.
Eating at least one hot meal a day and drinking as many hot drinks as they can manage will help them stay warm. Stews, soups and hot drinks like decaffeinated tea are great warmth-boosting options.
Staying hydrated is also crucial, as dehydration can make it more difficult for older adults to regulate their temperature properly. Herbal teas or warm cordials can help with warmth and hydration.
Ensure your loved one has a good stock of essential food supplies in their cupboards in case poor weather or illness prevents them from leaving the house for a few days.
Medication and winter vaccinations
It’s also important to ensure older adults have enough of any required medications and cold and flu remedies during winter.
Respiratory infections such as the flu and coronavirus become more prevalent over winter. Protect your loved one by ensuring they’re up to date with their winter vaccinations. Over 65s (and other vulnerable adults) are entitled to free flu jabs. They may also be eligible for the pneumo vaccine, Shingles vaccine and a coronavirus booster jab.
Preventing falls
Wet, slippery leaves, rain-soaked paths and icy and snowy conditions can all increase the risk of falls for older adults.
Grab rails alongside steps, paths and doorways can make these areas safer for your loved one. Footwear with good grip or non-slip soles is also a good option in poor weather.
Keep your loved ones’ paths and driveways clear of ice and snow. To improve slippery outdoor surfaces, keep a mix of salt and grit handy.
At-home assistance
Care professionals can be there to support your loved one with all sorts of tasks through the winter months. They can pop in with supplies, ensure they’re getting the right nutrition, hydration and medication or assist them with getting to social activities or medical appointments.
Contact us to discuss the support we can provide for your loved one.