The Art of Caring – Part 3: 6 ways to keep older friends and family safe in winter

With Christmas now fast approaching, colder weather is upon us once again and early signs indicate we could be in for a harsh winter.

Worryingly, according to the Office of National Statistics, in the winter of 2017-18, the number of excess winter deaths rose to its highest total since the winter of 1975-76. Therefore, as we approach this winter, it is important that as a community, we start to think about how we can care for those around us, that are older or more vulnerable.

With this in mind, at Radfield Home Care we have put together a 6-point checklist, to help keep your older loved ones and friends safe during the winter months.

• Dress for the Weather – Ensure older people are wearing suitable clothing during cold snaps. Layering loose clothing is advised as the trapped air helps insulate the body.
• Check-in regularly – Keep in contact with older people during the colder months and take time to visit them to ensure the house is being kept warm enough and in a safe manner (look out for dangerous situations when open flames and stand-alone heaters are in use).
• Flu Jab – Whilst the flu is unpleasant for most of us, for the elderly it can be life threatening. Help by making sure they get the flu jab at the earliest.
• Reduce fall risk – A huge amount of winter hospital admissions of the elderly are due to falls. Help by clearing driveways and pavements where possible and offer to pick up and assist with shopping trips to reduce the risk of a fall when it is icy.
• Meals on wheels – Help organise a food delivery service to your older friends and family to reduce trips out of the house during adverse weather.
• Buddy system – Useful for relatives further afield; have a local neighbour or relative in the area regularly check in on them.

Radfield Home Care Wycombe, Beaconsfield & South Bucks specialises in care for older people in their own homes. Our services include companionship, personal care, medication support, housework and specialist Dementia and Parkinson’s care, all provided by fully trained and DBS checked carers. To discuss your needs, or those of a friend or relative, please call on 01494 614 516, or email [email protected].

Radfield Home Care Wycombe, Beaconsfield & South Bucks provides the highest level of care in the home across High Wycombe, Beaconsfield, Marlow, Amersham, Gerrards Cross, the Chalfonts and surrounding areas.