As the weather gets colder, it’s important to know how to keep warm in the winter months. Freezing weather conditions can be extremely dangerous for the more vulnerable population. Colder weather particularly increases the chances of elderly people catching the flu or having respiratory issues. The cold can also increase your blood pressure and thicken the blood, which can cause a higher risk of a heart attack. Your heart must work much harder in order to pump blood around your body in order to keep you warm.
According to the Office for National Statistics, between the 2021 to 2022 winter period, there were approximately 13,400 excess winter deaths across England and Wales. We don’t say this to frighten you. In fact, number were lower than in the two years prior. However, it’s crucial to know the main ways you can keep warm and healthy this winter. Read on for a few tips.
Cold and Flu Vaccine
In order to reduce the chances of you catching the flu, it is advised that you visit your doctor and get the Flu Jab. This vaccination is available every year and is free to those aged over 65 or who are living with certain health conditions.
The flu jab is the best way of limiting your chances of catching the flu and it is advised that you should get yours as soon as possible. Plenty of tests have been done on the flu jab, and although it doesn’t offer 100% protection against flu, it does help limit the severity of the condition.
Your illness will be milder and much shorter if you have had your flu jab. Combine this with our other tips on how to keep warm, and you’re set. The vaccine is also changed every year depending on which viruses are expected to trigger the most illnesses.
If you are under 50, then you can still receive the flu vaccine if you:
- Have certain medical conditions.
- Are overweight.
- Are living in a long-stay residential care home or other long-stay care facility.
- Receive a carer’s allowance, or you are the main carer for an elderly or disabled person whose welfare may be at risk if you fall ill.
- Are a front-line health and social care worker.
- Pregnant.
Alongside the protection from the flu, some tests have shown that the vaccine can also help reduce the risk of you having a stroke.
To arrange a flu jab, you should contact your local pharmacy.
Keep Your Home Heated
During the winter months, it is very important for you to keep your home as warm as possible. The ideal temperatures for rooms in your house, to help you to stay safe, are as follows:
- Living room: 21°C
- Bedroom: 18°C
Usually, you should have your heating on as much as possible so that the radiators are hot throughout your home. However, we recognise that during the current cost of living crisis this may not be viable. However, turning on your heating for short periods at the start and end of the day may help to keep your home warmer. It will also keep your heating system in good health, potentially saving money on repairs.
Make sure you don’t leave any windows open either, especially during the night when temperatures drop to their lowest. If you’re not aware, you could be eligible for winter fuel allowance too, which aims to support elderly people during the colder months. This scheme means the government provides money to go towards gas and electricity.
Speaking of night time, now might be the best time of the year to use a hot water bottle or, if you have one, an electric blanket when you go to bed. Remember to ensure these are switched off when not in use. Hot soup and drinks are a great idea for meals throughout the day too. You should also try to make the effort to move around and keep active.
One more easy tip to follow is to simply keep all your doors closed when you are not using them. This is a quick and easy way of insulating each room and preventing draughts.
The key to staying safe at home during these weather conditions is to ensure that you are well-informed. If you follow the news and weather, you will know what to expect and this will enable you to prepare for whatever is coming.
How to Keep Warm
Try and avoid going outside unless you absolutely have to, but if it is necessary then please wrap up warm. Add plenty of layers to your outfit and wear all of the usual winter essentials such as scarves, hats, and gloves. If you don’t already have these, then why not plan a trip out with the family to pick some out?
The more layers you are wearing, the warmer your body will remain when you are out and about. For example, rather than just wearing a coat, why not add an extra jumper? Investing in some extra layers could ultimately save money, reducing the need to turn up the heating.
Family
Family are really important during the winter months. Your family are there to help you, so you should always ask for it if you feel like you may need assistance.
Rather than having to go out in the cold to get your shopping, you could always ask your children or grandchildren to pop to the shops for you. Or if your home isn’t quite as warm as it should be, why not spend a few days at their house instead?
If you are unsure of how to use your heating systems or the radiators, then ask your family to come round. Alternatively, arrange for a plumber to visit and solve the problem if there is one.
Your family can make your life so much easier when we have freezing weather. You could always ask them for tips on how to keep warm as well.
Consider a Personal Alarm
It might be the case that you’re not worried about how to keep warm, but about other winter issues. A great way to give you some reassurance, and to give your family peace of mind that you are safe, is to have a personal alarm installed at your home. Our system is easy to set-up and simple to use if you require assistance in your home.
The alarm comes with a base unit and an alarm pendant which can be worn around your neck or your wrist depending on your preference. The pendant is small and lightweight, so it won’t get in the way during your daily activities.
If you experience a fall, simply press the big red button on your pendant. This will send an alert to our 24/7 Response Team who will speak to you over the base unit’s loudspeaker system. After assessing the situation, they will call your emergency contacts. If necessary, they can also alert the emergency services.
Get in Touch
If you’re concerned for your safety this winter, consider a personal alarm. You can buy your alarm online or by calling our helpful team on 0800 030 8999.
Editor’s Note: This article was updated on 18th December 2023 to reflect current information.
