Polehampton Close, Twyford, Berks, RG10 9RP
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Latest News
28th January 2025
Helping Older Loved Ones Stay Safe and Warm This Winte
It’s that time of year again where the days feel shorter and the weather is getting colder. For some this might feel cosy and comfortable, for others it can feel more isolating and potentially dangerous.
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This can be much worse for older individuals. Perhaps they’re not very mobile or are struggling to stay warm. It’s important that we check in with our older friends and relatives to make sure they are staying safe and comfortable during the cold seasons.
Warmth and comforts With the cost of living rising each year some necessities have become less affordable. And this can be more risky for older people. Be sure to look out for any signs that your loved one is dangerously cold. Make sure you are checking in to see if they are warm and comfortable. Whilst you may not be able to heat their whole house, there are a few other ways to keep them warm:
âž” Hot water bottles
âž” Electric blankets (used safely - never with a hot water bottle or left on overnight unless on a timer)
âž” Draught blockers
âž” Warming foods like stews and soups
âž” Hot drinks
âž” Thick fluffy socks, gloves, and hats
âž” Extra blankets
If you’re concerned about affordability, it would be a good idea to check if your loved one is eligible for the government's Warm Home Discount Scheme, check this here.
Avoiding Slips and Falls
During the icy days you’ve probably had a moment where you’ve slipped slightly but managed to maintain balance. However, people that are older or have less mobility may not be able to recover easily and the fall could be devastating. Because of the fear of falling in the harsh weather, it can make them isolate more and be afraid to leave their house. There are ways you can prevent these slips ensuring they stay safe.
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âž” Offer to salt their pathways and driveways
âž” Make sure they are wearing safe shoes
âž” Clear leaves as they can make the pathway more slippery
âž” If it’s a icy day you could offer to help them do their chores
âž” Bringing their shopping to them or helping them set up online food deliveries
Helping them stay social As the weather gets colder it becomes harder to make plans, and doing usual activities such as sitting outside a cafe becomes much harder. For some people this could be the only socialising they do for the day. Perhaps they’re retired or live alone and not being able to get out as much can become very isolating. You could offer to go around to their house to watch some tv or have some dinner. If this isn’t possible due to distance, something as simple as a call can make someone's day by letting them know you’re thinking of them.
Isolation in care homes is also a pressing issue, specifically for people with mental health issues. In this University of Bedfordshire study, over 80% of adults with mental health problems suffer with loneliness. So if you know a family member or a friend in a care home, reach out, send a card, or visit them.
Encouraging gentle exercising It can become quite easy to become dormant in the winter. It’s much easier to stay in bed warm than getting up and exercising, it can feel like the last thing people want to do. However, keeping movement in their day to day life is essential to their wellbeing and joints.
The amount of exercise some one should do completely depends on their ability and should be assessed as such. Some activities that would help people might not realise are even exercises! By simply taking your loved one for a walk around the garden centre you will be keeping them physically and mentally stimulated. Some other activities that are good are baking, cooking, and crocheting.
Supporting our older loved ones is more than just helping them with practicality, it’s about compassion and connections as well. By taking a couple hours out of your week to check in and spend time with elderly relatives and friends you can make a huge impact on their life.
Holly Dodd - Freelance Writer & Blogger - www.thewritersdiary.co.uk
20 September 2023
1970's Hippy Groovy Time
A fun sing-a-long with Ben our entertainer, reminiscing all the 70's classics.
20 September 2023
1970's Hippy Groovy Time
A fun sing-a-long with Ben our entertainer, reminiscing all the 70's classics.
8 May 2023
The Big Help Out in Sonning
The Trustees baked cakes and manned a stall at the Pearson Hall in Sonning on the King's Coronation weekend as part of "The Big Help Out".
19 March 2023
Our very own Debs collected the finalist certificate from local Councillor Stephen Conway in the 'Charity of the year' category at our local community awards.
