Keep warm this winter

When the weather outside is frightful, indoors should be delightful.

With forecasts of a bitterly cold winter ahead and energy bills continuing to rise, Mears, the firm that provides care-at-home services in Glasgow South West, is keen to spread the word about the importance of staying warm during the coldest months, especially among the elderly.

Service manager Ann Low says: “We want to ensure that the older people in our community and people with medical conditions that are affected by temperature are aware of the simple things they can do to stay warm this winter.

She adds: “We also hope that our tips might encourage people to pop in to see their elderly or housebound neighbours just to check that they’re okay and to offer a bit of company during the winter days.”

Mears suggests a number of actions that people can take to keep themselves warn during the coldest months of the year, without burning a hole in their pocket.

Make sure your home is at the right temperature – between 18°C and 21°C – so you can keep warm and keep your bills as low as possible. Turn the heating down in the rooms that are not in regular use.

Shut the doors to any rooms that you don’t use. This will provide another barrier between you and the cold weather outside and will reduce heat loss.

Wear several thin layers rather than just one thick one, as the layers trap warm air close to the body, and this will also make it easier to control your temperature.

Close your curtains as soon as it becomes dark to stop the heat escaping and any draughts coming in.

If you’re entitled to a free flu jab – which includes those aged 65 or over – make sure you get it.

Ask your energy provider if they have special rates for the elderly and check to see if you qualify for any benefits to help pay for extra heating in winter.

A shawl or blanket will provide extra warmth if you’re sitting down and you should also try to keep your feet up because air is colder at ground level.

Avoid placing large pieces of furniture in front of your radiators to allow warm air can circulate more freely.

Wrap up warm in bed and, when it’s really cold, wear thermal underwear and socks.

Think about investing in a duvet with a higher tog rating.

Food is a vital source of energy, which helps to keep your body warm. Try to have hot meals and drinks regularly throughout the day and keep active in the home if you can.

Mears provides services to people who require extra support to help them continue living in familiar surroundings and in comfort at home. It assists individuals of all ages, including disabled people, individuals with learning disabilities, people with mental health problems, or those just needing a little bit of extra help at home.

Mears can also help older people to live in their own homes rather than in long-term residential care. From help with cooking and cleaning, to medication or shopping, the company’s friendly, trained support workers offer dependable support for independent living.