Christmas cold warning for the elderly - 5.12.06

In the wake of recent freezing temperatures and snow IndependentAge is warning older people to take care and stay warm this winter.  Research shows that for every degree below the winter average the temperature drops, there are 8,000 extra deaths.

Older people are particularly susceptible to the effects of the cold and may not notice that their body temperature has fallen or that their rooms are too cold.  Hypothermia, stroke and heart attack can all be caused by prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. 

Communities can also help by keeping a neighbourly look out for older people living nearby.  Simple gestures such as a note through the door offering help with errands or dropping in for a chat are a positive way of helping older people to manage the effects of the cold weather.  As the temperature drops, older people stay indoors and can become increasingly isolated and depressed.

Jonathan Powell, chief executive, IndependentAge, commented: "The UK is the world's 4th richest economy and yet every year we see the scandal of over 20,000 older people dying unnecessarily from the cold.  As the freezing weather sets in, we all need to remember the older people in our communities.  Older people can help themselves by following our top tips on staying warm this Christmas and throughout the winter period.  Their family, neighbours and friends can also help by making sure that they are comfortable and have everything they need."

IndependentAge's Top Tips for Elderly People To Stay Warm This Winter

General
Avoid cold environments.
Wear layered clothing to trap warm air and to help keep your body warm.
Eat and drink plenty to keep energy levels up.
Stay as active as possible to maintain healthy circulation.
Avoid clothing or blankets that may restrict circulation.
Wear a hat and other insulating clothing.

At Home
Try to keep the temperature in your main room at 21C (70F).
Try to keep all rooms in the home heated as moving from hot to cold areas can affect your health.
Warm your bedroom and bed before going to bed.
Draught-proof doors and windows to help insulate your home.
When curtains are drawn, make sure they do not cover radiators.
Set your hot water thermostat at 60C (140F).
Fit an insulation jacket to your hot water cylinder and lag pipes to help prevent heat loss.
Have your heating system serviced each year to ensure that it is working properly.