Keep Warm This Winter

Wrap up well

It sounds obvious but there are some tips to do this effectively. Several thin layers are better at keeping you warm that one thick layer because layers trap warm air between them. When you venture out into the cold take some extra layers because the temperature gets so much colder when you are in the shade and when it gets dark.

Keeping hands and feet warm makes a big difference. When it’s cold our bodies redirect blood to our vital organs. Thick gloves and socks and, of course, a hat will really help. Feeling cold in bed at night is miserable and can effect sleep so wear warm nightwear thick socks. Also it can feel really cosy if you warm your nightwear on the radiator first.

Don’t forget to use that trusty favourite, a hot water bottle. Putting it in your bed before you get in feels lovely. There’s a warning with hot water bottles though. Rubber can perish and the advice is to replace them every two years. Also, it seems obvious but don’t use one if you are using an electric blanket and don’t sit on it or use it as a cushion.

A warm home

Energy cost are a worry these days but these tips can help you save money while still keeping safe and warm. Which rooms do you use most during the day? Heat these to a comfortable temperature. Around 18°C or 64°F is good. In rooms you don’t use at all, turn off the radiators and close the doors. Keeping curtains open during the day when the temperatures are a bit higher can help bring some warmth into your rooms – especially if it’s a sunny day. As it gets dark close curtains, keep windows shut and block out draughts. Also keep doors closed around the house to prevent draughts. If you have hard floors you will find that rugs will help with insulation.

Winter Germs

Flu and other viruses increase in winter so it’s good advice to get any jabs you are entitled to.

You're entitled to a free flu jab from the doctor or pharmacist if you:

• are aged 65 or over
• care for someone, such as a friend or family member
• are under 65 and have a serious long-term health condition
• live in the same house as someone who is immunocompromised
• are in long-stay residential care

When you get your flu jab, check if you're also eligible for the pneumo vaccine, which helps protect you from pneumonia, and the Shingles vaccine.

There are some basic things you can do too to stop germs spreading. It starts with regularly washing your hands with soap and water (and using hand sanitiser when you are out). Also, remember to sneeze or cough into a tissue, open windows a little in your home when you have visitors and avoid close contact with people who are unwell. Of course you can also wear a face mask in shops and other busy places.

Be prepared

Make sure you have cold and sore throat remedies in your medicine cabinet in case you feel poorly. It’s also a great idea to always have a few days worth of food in the cupboard in case you don’t feel well enough to go out or in case the weather is really bad. Other emergency essentials like torches, spare batteries and some bottles of water can be useful.

Are you entitled to any State Benefits?

This can be more complicated and confusing but there are various websites and advice lines to help you. There are also schemes that can help with energy bills.

The charity Age UK has some really helpful links including one to a Benefits Calculator. Click here

to check you are getting all the help you are entitled to.

A warmer winter for everyone

Do you have a neighbour or a family member who may need some help to keep warm and safe this winter? Pop round to see them to share this advice and see if there’s anything you can do to get them winter-ready. Remind them that eating well is important. Warm food and plenty of hot drinks will help. Check in on them when you can. Enjoy their company and brighten up the winter months for both of you.