Staying warm and safe: Essential advice for older people during cold snap

As temperatures drop across Wales and icy conditions create hazards, the Older People’s Commissioner for Wales has urged older residents to take extra care.

In a recent social media post, the Commissioner emphasised the importance of staying warm and avoiding slips on icy surfaces.

With very cold weather expected, it’s really important that older people keep warm and take extra care when out and about to avoid slips on any ice.@AgeCymru‘s Winter Wrapped Up guide has a range of useful info to help you stay warm and safe:https://t.co/XB9t9dwHJg pic.twitter.com/b29LkwYmxw

— Older People’s Commissioner for Wales (@talkolderpeople) January 8, 2025

This timely message aligns with Winter Wrapped Up, a guide from Age Cymru that offers invaluable advice to help older people navigate the challenges of winter.

Keeping Warm: A Vital Priority

Staying warm is not just about comfort—it is essential for protecting health. Cold weather can exacerbate chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses, while also increasing the risk of strokes and heart attacks.

Age Cymru advises maintaining an indoor temperature of at least 18°C, particularly in living rooms and bedrooms. To keep heating bills manageable, homeowners are encouraged to:

• Use thermostatic radiator valves to heat only the rooms in use.
• Close curtains and blinds at dusk to retain warmth.
• Wear several thin layers of clothing rather than one thick layer, as this traps heat more effectively.

For those concerned about heating costs, financial support is available through schemes such as Pension Credit, Cold Weather Payments, and the Welsh Government’s Nest programme, which can provide free energy efficiency improvements.

Staying Safe Outdoors

Venturing outside during icy weather requires caution to avoid slips and falls, which are a leading cause of injury among older people. The Older People’s Commissioner recommends wearing sturdy footwear with non-slip soles and taking extra time to reach your destination.

For added safety, grit paths around the home using a mix of rock salt and grit, which can often be obtained for free from local councils. For dog owners, the Cinnamon Trust can connect you with volunteers who may be able to assist with walking pets during icy conditions.

Practical Winter Health Tips

Age Cymru’s Winter Wrapped Up guide offers additional advice for maintaining health during winter:

• Stay active: Even light exercise, such as chair-based stretches or a short walk, can improve circulation and boost immunity.
• Eat well: Nutritious meals rich in fruits, vegetables, and proteins provide the energy needed to keep warm. Warm drinks, such as herbal teas or hot water with lemon, can help with hydration.
• Take precautions at night: Wear warm clothes to bed, use an electric blanket (but never with a hot water bottle), and keep a flask of warm drink by your bedside.

Preventing Hazards at Home

Age Cymru highlights the importance of protecting against risks such as carbon monoxide poisoning and house fires. Older people should ensure their boilers and chimneys are serviced annually, install carbon monoxide alarms in rooms with fuel-burning appliances, and test smoke alarms weekly. The Fire and Rescue Service offers free “Safe and Well” visits, which include installing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

Reaching Out for Support

Feeling isolated is common during the shorter, darker days of winter. Age Cymru encourages older people to stay connected with friends and family through phone or video calls. For those feeling lonely, Age Cymru’s befriending services and local community groups can provide valuable social interaction.

A Call to Action

The Older People’s Commissioner’s reminder to stay warm and cautious during the cold snap is a vital message. With resources like Age Cymru’s Winter Wrapped Up guide, older people across Wales can access practical advice to remain safe, warm, and healthy this winter.

For more information, contact Age Cymru Advice on 0300 303 44 98 or visit their website at www.agecymru.org.uk.