Seasonal advice

During the winter in the UK, it's advisable to keep the indoor temperature for older adults between 18°C to 21°C (64°F to 70°F). Maintaining a warm and comfortable environment is essential to avoid health hazards related to cold temperatures. This is especially crucial for older people who are more susceptible to the cold and its impact on their health and overall wellbeing.

During the winter, older adults need to take certain precautions to ensure their safety. They should keep warm indoors by wearing appropriate clothing and ensure outside walkways are cleared of snow and ice to prevent falls. Staying active indoors can also be beneficial. Additionally, getting preventative vaccines, staying hydrated, and checking that heating systems and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning correctly are important steps to take. To maintain wellbeing, it is crucial to keep up with social connections, manage medication properly, and have an emergency kit on hand. Regular health check-ups can also help monitor overall wellbeing. By taking these measures, safety and wellbeing can be promoted during the colder months.

With extreme weather conditions becoming the norm, it is not just the colder months that can be a risk to our health. During hot weather, it is important for older adults take certain precautions to stay safe.

• These include staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration.
• It is also recommended to stay cool by remaining in air-conditioned rooms or using fans during the hottest hours of the day.
• Wearing lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-coloured clothing can also help regulate body temperature.
• To avoid direct sun, it is advised to limit outdoor activities during peak sun hours, seek shade when outdoors, and wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
• Applying sunscreen with a high SPF can protect the skin from harmful UV rays.
• It is also important to monitor any medications that may increase sensitivity to heat and consult a GP if needed.