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Safety Concerns for the Elderly in Winter

Winter can be a dangerous and stressful time for the elderly as many safety concerns can arise. It is essential that the elderly are kept warm in the Winter months- The cold weather can lead to frostbite and hypothermia-if the body temperature drops too low, this can severely affect someone’s health.

It is important to ensure that your home is kept warm and that you wear lots of light layers. Living rooms should be at a temperature of 21c, but it’s important to make sure that bedroom windows are kept closed at night – breathing cold air can increase the risk of chest infections. A temperature of 18c in your bedroom is an ideal temperature. 
As well as helping to prevent colds and flu, staying warm can also help to prevent more serious illnesses such as heart attacks, strokes, pneumonia and depression.

https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/health-wellbeing/keep-well-this-winter/stay-healthy-in-winter/how-to-keep-your-hands-and-feet-warm/

It is also important to ensure that flu vaccinations are kept up to date and done on a yearly basis- There is also a pneumonia vaccination that many people may be eligible for. 

https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/health-wellbeing/conditions-illnesses/flu-prevention/

Many over-the-counter medicines (including paracetamol and ibuprofen) are available to relieve symptoms of common winter ailments such as a cold, sore throat, cough, sinusitis or painful middle ear infection (earache). If someone you know starts to develop these symptoms, please ensure that they receive medical advice immediately. It is also advisable to ask your local chemist what medicines should be kept in medicine cabinets to keep coughs and colds at bay. 

If you have any health concerns, please make sure that you call 111 as soon as possible. You may also find the links provided in this blog to be of some use!