Caring and Supporting an Elderly Relative during Cold Weather

The following are some handy tips to consider in cold weather when you have an elderly relative or neighbour.  We can also provide an adhoc support plan for your relative.

• Make sure they have suitable clothing and wear layers.
• Check the house for draughts and ensure they keep warm the areas of the house where they are living.Closing doors and use draught excluders to retain heat in an area.
• Ensure that they are aware of and benefit from a flu jab at the local NHS GP Clinic. If they are sitting for long periods make sure their extremities are covered with socks, slippers, blankets or covers.
• A good pair of bed socks will help keep them warm at night. Also an electric blanket or hot water bottle warming the bed prior to going to bed. Make sure they have hot meals and a higher calorie food intake.
• Hot meals like soup and hot drinks will help maintain body heat. Also make sure they have enough supplies to last them a few days longer if going out is going to problematic.
• Encourage movement, even walking around the home to help stimulate circulation.
• Exercising when seated by moving feet and hands also stretching will all help to improve body feeling in cold weather.
• Ensure the access to the property is clear, salt paths and driveways making sure trip and slip hazards are avoided.
• Ensure neighbours, friends and family pop in to help in adverse weather conditions.