Changes to our bodies as we get older mean that cold weather and winter bugs affect us more than they used to. And this winter, we know we’ll need to live with coronavirus as well as other respiratory viruses.

The good news is that there’s lots we can do to help keep ourselves well in winter. Here are tips from Age UK on how to stay warm and well this winter.

For a warmer home

• Draw your curtains in the evenings to minimise heat loss through windows.
• Tuck long curtains behind radiators so that heat isn’t trapped.
• Keep radiators and heaters clear so heat can circulate - don’t put furniture in front of them or dry washing on them.
• If there are rooms you don’t use, turn off the radiators in them and close the doors.
• Keep your home at a stable, comfortable temperature. Ideal temperature for the living room 21°C (70°F), bedroom 18°C (64°F), bathroom between 22°C and 24°C (71°F and 75°F).
• Close your bedroom window when the weather is at its coldest.
• Use a hot-water bottle, wheat bag or an electric blanket to warm the bed. 

Stay healthy

• Keep moving, try not to sit still for more than an hour at a time. Even a little bit of activity now and then can help you maintain strength and mobility.
• Eat well - spending more time indoors and doing fewer of the things we enjoy means it can be difficult to keep up the motivation to prepare meals. But it’s good to try and keep to a routine. If you’re struggling to prepare a hot meal contact our office to include this as part of your support plan during our visit.
• It’s a good idea to keep your cupboards stocked with some basics just in case you can’t get out to the shops - whether due to illness or bad weather. If it’s not possible for you to get to the shops, then we can assist and shop for you. Contact the office so that we can include this as part of the support we provide for you.
• Wrap up at home. Wearing plenty of layers is the best way to keep warm in winter. It may sound silly but wearing a hat and scarf will help you keep warm, especially during the cold snaps.
• Get your winter vaccinations - even if you’re fighting fit. This winter, respiratory viruses are expected to be more widespread, as we were less exposed to them during the coronavirus lockdowns. 

Lift your spirits

• Stay connected - It maybe we can’t meet up with people in person at times this winter, but a phone call or a video call with those we care about most can make a huge difference to how we feel. 
• Do something you enjoy every day. Having a daily routine can be really helpful, it gives our minds some certainty and can help us build up good habits.
• Have you been meaning to do something? Is there an old hobby you used to enjoy that you could pick up again? Are there any books you have been meaning to read or films which have caught your eye?
• If you have been feeling low for some time, then it’s a good idea to speak to your GP about how you’re feeling. Or speak to your carer on their next visit.

Can we help

Is there a game you would enjoy from our compendium selection? Is there a book we can read to you from our book club? Would you benefit from increased visits at this time of year?

We are always happy to offer advice and suggest ways in which we can help to lift your spirits at this time of year. Contact our Care Manager on 01625 526850.