Checking on your elderly neighbours in the winter

Whereas we must be mindful of the pandemic, The weather is forecasted colder over the next week. Please check on your elderly neighbours. It only takes a few minutes and can literally be a life-saver.

Check to see if they look well and their normal selves. If they look poorly advise they call 111 or book a GP appointment.

The main things to advise your neighbour

The heating set to 18C, especially the bedroom at night

They are having plenty of hot drinks throughout the day.

They are getting at least one hot meal a day with carbs such as potatoes, pasta, bread or rice.

They are keeping doors closed and drawing curtains as it gets dark to keep out draughts.

They wear several thin layers, rather than one thick layer.

If sitting down a shawl or a blanket will provide extra warmth.

Run errands

With the pandemic and colder weather, and bearing in mind that not all older people will use the internet they may struggle to access the supermarket.

The local pharmacies now deliver medication as standard, but they may not know this or not know how to set the service up.

Do they have a dog? Is the cold-weather stopping them from walking their pet?

Has it snowed and their path blocked? 

Perhaps you could consider helping them out with the above?

If you're worried about a relative or elderly neighbour, contact your local council or call the Age UK helpline on 0800 678 1602