

7 ways to help elderly neighbours when it's cold outside

Public Health England (PHE) have urged people to check on older friends, family and neighbours

Smiling older woman with hot drink
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Forecasts suggesting that the current cold weather is here to stay for a while have prompted Public Health England (PHE) to urge people to check on older friends, family and neighbours, who may feel isolated.

In a statement, Dr Angie Bone, of PHE's Extreme Events team, said: "It can be all too easy for those of us who are fit and well and able to cope with the cold - but it's really important to remember that it can leave some people feeling a bit cut off."

"In events like this it's possible that some people who are not in the best of health will stay at home, rather than risk venturing out in cold and icy conditions, and this can lead to feeling more isolated than usual. That's why as this colder period continues we should all check in on those we know, whether they're friends, family or neighbours, who may be at risk, and offer to lend a helping hand. Do they need shopping or a prescription collecting? Can they get to GP or hospital appointments? Do they just need some company?"

While a lot of us embrace cold and frosty days, for many elderly, vulnerable people this time of year can be an enormous struggle. According to Age UK, each winter one older person dies every 7 minutes in weather-related circumstances. Low temperatures not only increase the risk of flu and respiratory problems, but can also raise blood pressure – increasing the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes.

Nicki Bones, SweetTree Director of Operations advises checking in daily with an elderly neighbour or loved one – either by phone or in person – to make sure their house feels warm. She adds that not seeing the lights on at usual times or not answering the door or responding to the phone, could be signs that something is up. "If you notice any unusual activity (or inactivity) inform a family member immediately," she says.

Whether it's a loved one or neighbour, here are 7 ways you might be able to help...

1. Heating basics

Ideally, living rooms should be heated to 21°C and the rest of the home around 18°C – consistent temperatures, rather than rapid variations, are better. Make sure loved ones know how the timer and thermostat works, and ensure individual thermostats on radiators (if they have them) are at the correct temperature. The coldest time of the night is just before dawn, so it might be worth timing the heating to come on just before this.

If a loved one or neighbour is struggling financially, you can contact a local Age UK for a benefits check or any advice and eligibility for financial support. They might be able to claim fuel allowance or cold weather payments when the temperatures drop to zero between 1st November and 31st March. Difficulty paying bills? Try Charis Grants who can direct you to grants to help with utility debts.

Check for draughts, even the mini ones (like cat flaps and letter boxes). Light a candle and put it next to edges of windows and doors – if it flickers there could be a draught. If seals can't be replaced, consider draught excluders. If you're feeling crafty, stuffing tights with old socks is a thrifty way to create one at home.

Let the sunlight in through the window in the day for natural heat, but ensure there are thick curtains to retain some heat as soon as the sun goes down.

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2. Staying safe

Electric blankets, although toasty, must be serviced every three years. Heating systems should be serviced every year, where possible and check that the main stopcock in the house is easy to turn – if it's jammed you may need to replace it.

Ensure air vents aren't blocked, and in homes with wood burners, coal or gas heaters there must be adequate ventilation. Check there are carbon monoxide alarms and ensure all fire alarms are working properly.

Personal alarms allow the elderly to call for help, if they're unwell and can't reach a telephone. Local councils may run a personal alarm scheme. In England and Wales you can search based on your postcode. Age UK also provides Personal Alarms. For more information about Personal Alarms and the likely costs, call them on 0800 707 6369.

3. Outdoor help

On the frosty, icier evenings keep a mixture of salt and sandy ready to put on steps. Some councils provide free bags of the mix. Alternatively, you can find what you need in a DIY store.

For loved ones or local people in the community with a dog, offering to walk the dog when it's cold outside can be tremendous help. If you don't have time, The Cinnamon Trust may be able to match you with a dog-walking volunteer in the area.

4. Warming food and drink

Nicki highlights that warm food and drink is essential to the health of an elderly person. Bring a warm meal around when you can, and check there is plenty of food in the house. Make them a warm drink when you visit, and consider encouraging them to keep a flask of hot drink next to their bed.

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5. Medical help

Yearly flu jabs are recommended to those over 65. According to Dr Dawn Harper:

"Flu will wipe a couple of weeks out of your or my diary but for the frail and elderly it can be life threatening so it is important to ensure that they are vaccinated against this year's strain."

As well as a flu jab, over 65s may be entitled to a 'pneumo' jab – a one off jab that helps protect against pneumonia, meningitis and septicaemia.

If there's a bout of colder weather on its way, check they have ordered repeat prescriptions. Some pharmacies offer prescription delivery, such as Lloyd's Pharmacy.

Why not drop off some simple cold, flu and sore throat remedies? A pharmacist can advise you on the best ones to buy.

6. Warm clothes

On top of hats, and gloves, a scarf could be an elderly person's secret weapon as wearing it over the face when outside, means they breathe in warmer air. When hands, face and feet get cold, it may trigger a rise in blood pressure - so (woollen) bed socks are a must!

When layering clothes, suggest they choose several thinner layers opposed to one thick layer – as warmer air becomes trapped between the thinner layers. Opt for wool or fleecy synthetic fibres (e.g. polyester) over cotton. And thermal underwear could be a game changer.

7. The smaller details

Make sure you have their number or a family member's number, and make sure they have a list of emergency numbers (including utility companies) if they ever feel worried or feel unwell during winter.

Offer your loved one or neighbour a hot water bottle or wheat bag. Both are great at warming a bed up, but remind them that hot water bottles should never be used at the same time as an electric blanket.

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