Keep Warm Keep Well

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Keep Warm Keep Well During a cold snap… There are a number of actions that people can take to keep themselves warm during winter. Top tips – keeping warm • Advise them to close curtains and shut doors to keep heat in the rooms used the most. • Recommend using hot water bottles or electric blankets (but never both together) if the bedroom is cold at night. • Encourage them to eat well – food is a vital source of warmth, so they should eat regular hot meals and drinks throughout the day. • Encourage them to keep moving if possible – it is good for health and improves circulation. Top tips – for health and social care providers • Stay in regular contact throughout the cold snap. • Try to arrange for someone to visit at least once a day. • Give ongoing advice on keeping warm – the Keep Warm Keep Well booklets contain useful tips on heating and preparing for winter, financial support and staying healthy during winter. See page 10 to find out where to get them from. 8 | SUPPORTING VULNERABLE PEOPLE DURING COLD WEATHER
Keep Warm Keep Well About hypothermia Hypothermia is a condition where the body becomes dangerously cold. It can be caused by brief exposure to extreme cold or by prolonged exposure to mild cold. Hypothermia is a serious concern for older people who might be prone to falls or collapses. If it’s not treated quickly, it can be fatal. People with chronic or severe illness are likely to be at particular risk of current illnesses becoming worse from mild hypothermia. People with respiratory disease, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular conditions, COPD, asthma, severe mental illness, Parkinson’s disease and difficulties with mobility are all especially susceptible to the effects of the cold. Danger signs If someone has these symptoms, they may be suffering from hypothermia: • Very cold skin even under clothes, for example, across the stomach or under the arms. • Drowsiness and slurred speech. • Loss of sensation – not being able to tell when it is cold. Taking action If you think someone may have hypothermia, take immediate action: • Dial 999 for an ambulance. • Try to warm the person gradually by warming the room, wrapping them in a blanket or duvet, and giving them a warm drink. • Don’t give them alcohol or try to warm them up quickly. 9 | SUPPORTING VULNERABLE PEOPLE DURING COLD WEATHER
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Keep Warm Keep Well

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