Keep Elderly People Warm and Healthy During Freezing Weather

It’s much harder to stay warm when you are less active.

Older people feel the cold more as a result of natural ageing. They tend to have less muscle and fat for insulation, and a reduction in circulation means less heat is produced and transferred to the skin.

Underlying health issues such as diabetes, thyroid problems and medications can also decrease body temperature regulation. making seniors more sensitive to cold, especially in extremities like hands and feet.

Danger to Health!

It’s vital to keep warm. There are several risks for elderly people. These include:

Hypothemia
Heart Attack
Stroke
Increased risk of falling due to stiffness and poor circulation.

It’s advisable to understand just how cold your home is. There are plenty of affordable room thermometers available, and please don’t ignore them! According to Age UK, temperatures below 15 degrees centigrade raise blood pressure, which can be bad for your health.

Affordable Ways to Keep Warm.

With the cost of living being so high across much of the globe, many elderly people are not using their heating.

Here are 10 affordable ways to stay warmer

Layer clothes. Layers trap warmth and are warmer than one thick layer. Thermals do help. Wear a hat inside and in bed if needed, and bedsocks.
Wear a hat inside. We lose upto 20% of body warmth through our heads
Drink plenty of hot drinks. Tea, coffee and herbal infusions warm you and keep you hydrated
Wear gloves inside. Keeping your hands warm helps with arthritis and circulation, especially if you have Reynaulds
Hot food. If possible, try to eat hot food and snacks,
Use a hot water bottle. If a water-filled one is risky, how about a microwave one?
Close your curtains during the day. If you have your radiators on, tuck the curtains behind them
Keep your feet off the floor. Use a cushion or footstool
Speak to your energy provider. Don’t freeze for pride.
Try to stay warm; it’s easier than warming up when frozen.

Cold Weather Payments

If you receive any of the following benefits, you should receive a cold weather payment if the temperature falls below zero for 7 consecutive days.

Pension Credit
Income Support
income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Universal Credit

Reducing Their Risk of Trips and Falls

Elderly people are already at a higher risk of falls, which can have serious consequences. Try to reduce their need to venture outside if the conditions are icy. Check on relatives and neighbours and offer to collect shopping if needed.