How to Enjoy the Cold Weather

We have put together some tips on how to enjoy the cold weather, which could help to give you and your family peace of mind during the colder months, and especially with the added pressures of the pandemic.

Getting older can leave us more vulnerable in the colder months as our bodies change how they respond to different temperatures. As we get older, our body can lose heat faster than when we are young, and changes in the body due to aging make it harder for you to be aware of getting cold. This makes it so important to stay wrapped up warm on cold days.

To reduce the risk of serious health problems, such as chest infections, heart attacks and strokes, you need to keep warm both inside and outside your home.

Here are a few simple suggestions, which can help you or your loved ones stay safe, warm and comfortable whilst warding off the winter chills:

• Ensure your heating system is running safely and efficiently, making sure it is serviced by a qualified engineer.
• Make sure your home has adequate ventilation and never block air vents.
• Check that you know where the main stopcock is, and that it is easy to turn off the water. If water pipes freeze they may burst.
• Consider investing in an electric blanket if you don’t already have one.
• Ask your local fire service to assist you by phone or Zoom with checking your home for fire safety. This is a free service and you may be eligible to get free smoke alarms fitted.
• You may be eligible to claim financial support to help with your heating bills.
• Dress in plenty of layers and make sure you have warm shoes, which have non slip soles.
• Be prepared for Jack Frost visiting and keep salt and sand handy to put at your front and back door.
• Eat healthily, and eat plenty, winter warming soups or one pot meals are packed full of goodness, and body fat helps you to stay warm. Make sure you keep your fridge and freezer well stocked, in case it’s too cold for you to go shopping.
• Make sure you are up to date with your flu vaccinations and keep simple cold, flu and sore throat remedies in your home.
• Ask a family member or your neighbour to visit more frequently.
• Wear socks and slippers indoors, and make sure there is a warm blanket nearby.
• Use a hot-water bottle, ensuring to use warm water but never boiling water.