Cold weather can affect anyone; however, older adults are particularly vulnerable to lower temperatures due to factors such as reduced circulation, a slower metabolism, and existing health conditions.
Throughout the winter months, older individuals face an increased risk of falls and respiratory issues such as colds and flu. At Oxford Aunts, we are dedicated to ensuring that you or your loved one enjoys a safe and comfortable winter, while continuing to carry out daily tasks securely.
The risks of cold weather for older people
Winter weather can pose significant risks for older adults, as their reduced ability to regulate body temperature makes it more challenging to tolerate the cold. If their body temperature goes below 37°C, serious complications such as hypothermia can arise. To prevent this from happening, it is best to wear plenty of layers to keep warm.
Furthermore, icy conditions can increase the likelihood of slips, trips, and falls, which can lead to severe injuries. To reduce these risks, make sure your loved one is accompanied when taking walks outdoors, especially on icy or uneven surfaces. Taking these precautions can help keep older adults safe and healthy during the colder months.
Winter safety tips
To ensure that you or your loved one remain safe throughout the winter, taking the following precautions can help reduce the risks.
Wear shoes with grip: Colder weather conditions can be hazardous, especially as it creates black ice on the roads and pavements. This can be difficult to spot, increasing the risk of falls for anyone. To keep your loved one safe, we recommend that suitable footwear is worn, such as shoes and boots with excellent grip to prevent the chance of any accidents happening.
Get your flu jab: Every year, the flu jab is offered free of charge through the NHS to people over 50 or those with certain health conditions. You or your loved one can get this vaccine by visiting your local GP, pharmacy, or some supermarket chemists where it is readily available.
Enjoy hot meals and drinks: It is recommended to provide at least one hot meal a day along with regular hot drinks. Eating warm, nutritious meals can help keep the immune system healthy and may prevent colds and flu.
Indoor exercise: If you or your loved one can’t go outside due to the weather conditions or darker evenings, encourage them to take short walks around the house every hour to stretch their legs and stay active. Simple activities like these can help maintain mobility, improve circulation, and support overall health, even when outdoor exercise isn’t possible.
Keeping warm at home
As well as staying safe, it is also important to ensure that individuals remain comfortable at home. Here are some ways to keep warm indoors.
- Keep the home heated at a temperature of at least 20°C to 21°C.
- Consider closing off rooms you are not using, to save on heating costs.
- A hot water bottle or an electric blanket can be used to warm the bed, but avoid using this at the same time as it can be dangerous.
- Keep the windows and doors shut tight and use draught excluders to help keep the cold air out.
- Draw your curtains as soon as it gets dark to help prevent draughts from getting in. The ground is where cool air circulates, so use rugs to cover cold floors, and try to keep your feet up if you feel cold.
We can help
We hope this advice has been helpful in ensuring you or your loved one has a safe winter.
If you feel you might need a little extra support, Oxford Aunts carers are here to support by putting this advice into practice while caring for our clients. Call us on 01865 519 105, and we can arrange care within 48 hours.
