Keeping Warm Tips for the Elderly

In the past the UK as a country has suffered with extreme weather conditions, particularly during winter – March is no different. The highest temperature on average is 10 degrees and 2 degrees for the lowest.

It is in this time when we have to pay more attention to our elderly loved ones, as this cold weather can translate into health problems or worsen conditions, especially during stormy or distressing weather. The exposure to cold can cause our own temperature to drop below the normal level which can, in turn, lead to hypothermia.

Domiciliary care or care at home is one of the best options to take care of our elders during this time, as it allows the patient to stay in the comfort of their own home receiving the best care.

With our care at home services, you can rest knowing that your loved ones are in good hands – Our highly trained carers make sure that our elders are safe and warm in their own homes.

However, there are many ways all of us can each other in ensuring loved ones are prepared for colder days and adverse weather. We are urging friends and family to share some tips on how to deal with cold temperatures:

Avoiding Falls & Bumps

• Stretch your muscles and joints before going for a walk
• If the weather conditions are too rough, make arrangements for someone to shovel and salt the drive.
• Install handrails on the outside and inside of the property.
• Wear thick shoes with non-slip rubber soles – Plastic and leather soled shoes tend to be the worst for walking on slippery paths.

Stay Indoors

• Cold temperatures, snow, rain, and wind can all steal body heat. Wind especially as it removes the layer of heated air from around the body.
• If you have to go outside, make sure you are covering your mouth, head and fingers.
• Stay dry, Wet clothing chills the body quickly

Keeping Warm

• Make sure that you are able to maintain your body temperature. You can achieve this by wearing several layers of clothes and wearing warm slippers around the house. It is recommendable wearing several layers instead of a thick one as the body warmth is trapped between the layers.
• Make sure all the windows and doors between rooms are closed. Coming to the curtains will help to keep your house warm.
• Have a blanket or a throw to cover your feet, shoulders or legs.
• Make sure your central heating system has been serviced and your chimney has been swept.
• Turn the heating on. If it is not possible heating all the rooms, make sure that the living room is kept warm and turn the heater on the bedroom before bed or place a hot water bottle in bed.
• Never cover heaters and fires, such as with drying clothes.
• Hot Meals are an easy way of keeping body temperature. Meals such as soups keep you warm, satiated and it is full of vitamins and minerals.
• Keep basic food items in stock.
• Keep a list with emergency numbers handy

Day to Day Habits

• Make sure you keep yourself hydrated in winter, even if you are not thirsty. The recommended daily water intake is from 8-10 glasses per day.
• Eat frequently, relative light meals.
• Avoid drinking alcohol or caffeine
• Warm beverages and food to help you stay warm.

While at home, keep active in order to increase blood flow that will lead to warmer body heat.

Our care at home services ensures that your loved ones are protected from the dangers of cold weather, regularly checking that they are warm enough, monitoring room temperatures and ensuring the house is kept warm day & night.

Our trained Care assistants can help with daily tasks such as bathing, cleaning the house, preparing hot and warm meals whilst also offering day-to-day support and companionship.

Are you looking for care at home services? There are many benefits to choosing homecare. Care at home is a lot more flexible, offering different levels of care tailored exclusively for you.

Contact us today and find out how our qualified team of carers can help you.