Stay well this Winter
It is vital, now more than ever, that you look after your health and wellbeing during the colder months. There are lots of simple things you can do and these are easy to incorporate into your daily routine – if you don’t already do so!
Eat well
Whilst it is tempting to eat more comfort foods as the days get colder and the nights draw in, it is important that we get enough nutrients to fight off any flu viruses that the Winter may bring. Read the NHS guide to eating well for more information.
NEWCIS have partnered with Pure Vegetable Wellbeing. They have put together some quick, easy and tasty recipes using fresh ingredients – why not take a look and try to make your own?
Exercise
Remember to keep moving! Not only will this warm you up but even a gentle activity, such as walking, can improve strength and mobility. Age UK have some great instructions for easy at home exercises including chair squats and stair stepping.
Get a flu jab
This Autumn / Winter it is more important than ever for older people to help protect themselves against the flu. Even if you feel fit and healthy, it is important to get your free flu jab before the Winter sets in. Everyone aged 65 and over, and anyone who cares for a friend or family member, is entitled to a free flu jab. Contact your GP or pharmacy for more information. Check if you meet the eligibility criteria.
General health
- Wash your hands regularly to stop the spread of germs
- Stock up on cold remedies (throat sweets, paracetamol) etc.
- Wrap up - keep your head, hands and feet warm, use a hot water bottle / electric blanket / blanket to get cosy
- Keep moving
- Make sure your home is warm
Keeping your home warm
Follow these tips from NHS to keep you and your family warm and well at home.
Winter Fuel Payment
If you were born on or before 5 October 1954 you could get between £100 and £300 to help you pay your heating bills. For more details and to see if you are eligible go to the GOV.UK website.
Cold Weather Payment
You’ll get a payment if the average temperature in your area is recorded as, or forecast to be, zero degrees celsius or below over 7 consecutive days. Read more information here.
Welsh Government Warm Homes Nest Scheme
The Nest scheme offers a range of free, impartial advice and, if you are eligible, a package of free home energy efficiency improvements such as a new boiler, central heating or insulation. This can lower your energy bills and benefit your health and wellbeing.
Look out for others
Remember to check in on older neighbours and relatives, and those with health conditions to make sure they are safe and well, warm enough (especially at night), have enough food and medication.Â
If you’re worried about a relative or elderly neighbour, you can call the Age UK helpline on 0800 678 1602 (8am to 7pm every day).
Mental wellbeing
- Keep a routine - during these uncertain times, especially, this helps to keep our minds focused
- Do things that you enjoy - try to do one thing a day or a few times a week
- Stay connected with loved ones. There are lots of apps that enable us to do this whilst we are socially distancing and cannot physically visit friends and family, including Zoom, Skype and FaceTime
- Reach out! Don't be afraid to speak to someone - a loved one or an organisation
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You can find a list of mental health support services here