Stay Warm This Winter

Bluebird Care is urging older people, their families, friends and neighbours to think WARMTH this winter to save lives.

Older people, their families, friends and neighbours need to think WARMTH this winter to save lives.
 
We love to talk about the weather in this country, but are often unaware of the real threat to life that our winters can cause for older and vulnerable people.
 
We are urging them to prepare for winter with the following simple guide to staying warm and safe.
 
W   Wrap Up dress warmly and make sure you’re wearing sturdy shoes with good grip when you go outside to prevent falls.

A   Stay Alert Keep an eye on the weather forecast and make sure you are stocked up with food and medicine in advance of a cold snap. If you have elderly neighbours, try and check up on them during cold weather.

R   Risk Try and minimise the risk of falls or becoming ill by taking the weather into account when you plan activity when severe weather is forecast.  Make sure you plan ahead for the cold weather by getting a flu jab, and talking to your neighbours about clearing snow in front of your home.

M   Money Winter bills can be very expensive.  Make sure that you’re receiving all of the benefits you’re eligible for.  In addition to the Winter Fuel Payments, available to anyone born before July 1952, and if it gets very cold you could be entitled to additional Cold Weather Payments.

T   Temperature Keep your bedroom heated to 18°C and your living room at 21°C.  If you can only afford to keep one room heated, then keep the heating on in your living room during the day and turn it on in your bedroom just before you go to sleep.

H   Hot meals Try to have at least one hot meal a day, and have hot drinks throughout the day to keep you warm. Eating regularly will help to keep up your energy levels in the cold weather.