Wintertime can be extremely difficult for older people, as they are more susceptible to seasonal illnesses, while their bodies also find it harder to stay warm.
That is why it is essential the elderly take extra care during the colder months to ensure they remain healthy.
Here is some advice on what they can do to stay fit and well over the winter.
Stay warm
As our bodies age, the skin becomes thinner, the metabolism slows down, circulation becomes poor and muscle mass declines, making it harder to regulate heat.
This makes older people more likely to feel the cold and puts them at an increased risk of hypothermia.
As a result, the elderly could find their chronic health conditions worsen, and because they stay indoors more often, they are at a higher risk of respiratory illnesses.
That is why it is essential that older people stay warm. This includes heating the house to 18C, adding rugs on hard floors, keeping the curtains shut and the windows closed, and using a hot water bottle or electric blanket to keep the body temperature up.
Having hot drinks and warm meals is also helpful, as well as wearing lots of thin layers, particularly over night when the temperatures drop.
Get vaccinated
Winter bugs can be very serious for the elderly, as their immune systems are not as good at fighting off the viruses.
At the same time, because the cold weather means people are indoors more, illnesses can spread more easily, putting them at greater risk.
That is why it is important to get all the vaccinations that are available, including ones for seasonal flu and Covid-19.
Anyone over the age of 65 can get a free flu jab from their local GP practice, while those older than 75 can get their coronavirus vaccination or booster.
Another inoculation available for those 65 years old and above is the ‘pneumo’ jab, which provides protection against pneumonia, meningitis and septicaemia.
Pneumonia can be very dangerous for the elderly, leaving sufferers with high temperatures, chest pain, shortness in breath and confusion. In some cases, it can prove fatal if not treated.
While illnesses such as the common cold, gastroenteritis, frostbite and hypothermia cannot be vaccinated against, it is important that people do what they can to stay away from germs, keep warm and look after themselves.
Eat a good diet
Fuelling your body correctly is essential to staying fit and well over the winter months, as the nutrients from food will help fight off illnesses, boost immunity, and stay strong.
As well as having at least one hot meal a day, it is essential to consume vitamins, minerals, protein, fats, carbohydrates and fibre.
It might be harder to make home cooked meals if mobility is a struggle, you have problems chewing or swallowing, or your appetite has changed, but it is crucial to follow a healthy diet consisting of wholegrains, a variety of fruit and vegetables, milk, cheese, beans, nuts and seeds, fish, poultry, meat and eggs.
Elderly people should also make sure they have enough water, as dehydration can be a big issue for this age group. This can lead to fatigue, confusion, a greater risk of falling, a fast heartrate, urinary problems, and forgetfulness.
As well as eating and drinking well, older people can improve their winter health by moving. Doing some exercise every day can maintain their strength, boost their mobility and get their blood flowing, so they stay warm.
Going for a short walk, not sitting down for more than an hour at a time, or doing exercises on a chair all count as some activity and can make a big difference towards general health
