Help older people to beat the cold snap

Blizzards and freezing temperatures are set for Northern Ireland this week according to weather watchers, while parts of England and Scotland have already seen six inches of snow.

Many will take the chance to enjoy a good snowball fight, however, for older people, this is the time of year when they are at their most vulnerable because of cold weather. Particularly susceptible are those who have medical conditions involving the heart, lungs or circulation system.

Help the Aged are asking everyone to take more responsibility for older people in our society during the winter weather. If you are a family member, friend or relative of an older person, a two minute call can make all the difference.

The charity recommends these tips to help older people keep warm:

• it’s better to wear a number of thin layers instead of one thick jumper
• take a hot water bottle to bed with you
• keep the house at a stable warm temperature. It is more fuel-efficient than heating it from cold every day and will help avoid the risk of burst pipes
• don't risk your life by worrying about fuel bills over a couple of weeks of cold weather. Find out about Cold Weather Payments and Winter Fuel payments
• avoid leaving the house if you can, but if you have to, and are travelling by car, ensure that you have enough petrol, blanket and provisions in the vehicle
• eating for warmth is essential for beating the cold.

Neighbourly actions to help older people:

• offer to do their shopping
• have a look at your older neighbour's house each morning. If you notice something unusual, such as newspapers or milk left outside, call and make sure that they are all right
• if there is ice and snow around, spread sand or gravel on doorsteps and paths.

Another easy way to help the elderly is to email your MP as part of Help the Aged’s online campaign to stop winter deaths. The email takes just one minute to complete. Visit the webiste at www.helptheaged.org.uk

For further information and advice on keeping warm call SeniorLine on 0808 808 7575.