8 January 2024 | By Sharon Kawonga

Looking After Your Loved Ones This Winter

old sarum manor care home resident with furry friend

As Christmas comes to an end and we learn that the next storm is on its way, possibly bringing blanket snow over the country, our elderly loved ones and neighbours may want a little more help.

A few pointers, or reminders may just help over the coming months before the sunshine starts to rear its head above the parapet.

Keeping Warm

Check that the heating works and that the temperature is set correctly, as well as that the timer is set for the necessary duration. Heating should be adjusted to at least 18 degrees Celsius.

You also want to make sure that your loved one has plenty of warm clothing. A persons temperature is important, but an elderly person’s immune system becomes suppressed and therefore the person is more susceptible to flu and colds for example, as well as creating breathing problems. Warming up and staying warm takes longer for an older person.

Getting out the house

It is beneficial to get out of the house for fresh air and physical activity, but avoid going outside if it is icy. You can grit as needed but you should not go out alone. If it’s too slippery for a stroll outside, perform your workout indoors; just make sure the floors are clear and there are no trip hazards around the house.

Bedtime

You want to make sure that an extra blanket or cover is at hand, as often the heating goes off at night. Also make sure that there are draft excluders where needed. Your loved might prefer a hot water bottle, just remember to think about whether or not it is necessary, because hot water bottles might cause injury if not used correctly.

Diet

And finally ensure that your loved one has enough food and snacks to eat, as well as hot drinks. It is important to have regular visits and make sure that they have your contact numbers easily accessible, or programmed into their phone, so that they can contact you in an emergency.

You might find that they may be more lonely, so a quick call when you cannot pop in, not only checks that they are ok, but also breaks up their day, so as they used to say, ‘it’s good to talk’!

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