Winter Health Advice

There are some practical steps that you can take to help keep you warm and healthy throughout the winter months:

  • Get the flu jab
  • Get a thermometer and check your rooms are over 18°C day and night
  • Wear plenty of layers and dress appropriately
  • Have hot food and drink, and remember to keep active
  • If you need help with money to keep warm speak to local services or Citizens Advice
  • Get your heating system checked / serviced
  • Speak to your GP, carer or nurse about how to keep well during winter
  • Check on your neigbours to make sure they are safe, warm and well

Advice on how to reduce the risk either for yourself or somebody you know can be obtained from the winter health pages at NHS Choices or from your local chemist.

If you are worried about your health or that of somebody you know:

Ring NHS 111

Severe cold weather can be dangerous, especially for the very young or very old or those with chronic disease.

Make sure that you stay warm. If going outside make sure you dress appropriately. If indoors, make sure that you keep your heating to the right temperature 18°C/65°F (bedroom) and 21°C/70°F (dayroom). If there is anyone you know who might be at special risk, for example, an older person living on their own, make sure they know what to do to stay warm and are well stocked with food and medications.

Direct effects of winter weather include an increase in incidence of:

Heart attack

Stroke

Respiratory disease

Influenza

Falls and injuries

Hypothermia

Groups at greater risk of harm from cold weather:

  • Over 75 years old
  • Have problems with heart or lungs
  • Have a serious mental illness
  • Have dementia
  • Have learning difficulties
  • Have mobility issues or struggle to walk
  • Young children
  • Live in cold or damp houses
  • Spend a large portion of income on heating
  • Older people living alone
  • Homeless people
  • Groups that are difficult for services to reach

Source: www.gov.uk/government/publications/cold-weather-plan-cwp-for-england