As the winter months approach, keeping warm and well becomes more challenging, especially with the rising cost of energy bills. At HCL, we are committed to supporting older adults in managing their health and wellbeing throughout the colder season. Here’s our guide to staying warm, healthy, and safe this winter, with advice on managing energy costs and accessing available support.
1. Stay warm and well
Maintaining a warm home during the winter months is essential to avoid cold-related illnesses such as flu, pneumonia, and hypothermia. Older adults are especially vulnerable to these conditions, so taking preventive measures is crucial.
- Keep your living room heated to at least 21°C and other areas you use regularly at 18°C. Use blankets or extra layers in rooms you don’t heat as much.
- Close curtains at dusk to reduce heat loss through windows.
- Wear several layers of clothing rather than one thick layer. Thermal underwear, woolly jumpers, and socks will help retain body heat.
- Move around regularly. If you can, try to move every hour to stimulate circulation and generate warmth. Even light activities can help, such as stretching or gentle chair exercises.
- Eat and drink warm meals. Aim to eat at least one hot meal per day and drink warm drinks regularly to keep your energy levels up.
2. Managing rising energy costs
With the cost of living increasing, it’s important to manage your energy use effectively while still keeping warm. Here are a few tips:
- Maximise heating efficiency by bleeding radiators, sealing drafts, and using radiator reflectors to keep the heat in your rooms.
- Use energy-efficient appliances. Switching to LED lightbulbs, unplugging unused electronics, and using a slow cooker instead of the oven can all help reduce your energy consumption.
- Set a timer for heating so that it comes on before you wake up and turns off when you go to bed. Keeping the heating on for shorter periods but at a consistent temperature may also be more efficient.
3. Financial support available for older adults
There is help available to support older adults in covering the rising cost of energy bills and managing the cold weather.
- Winter Fuel Payment: If you were born before 25 September 1957, you could receive between £250 and £600 to help with heating bills. This payment is automatic for most pensioners, but if you think you’re eligible and haven’t received it, you can contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.
- Cold Weather Payment: If the temperature in your area drops below 0°C for seven consecutive days, you may be eligible for a Cold Weather Payment of £25 for each qualifying week. This payment is typically automatic for those on Pension Credit or other benefits.
- Warm Home Discount Scheme: This scheme offers a one-off discount of £150 on your electricity bill between October and March. If you’re receiving Pension Credit or other qualifying benefits, you may be eligible for this discount.
- Pension Credit: Many older adults may be missing out on Pension Credit, a benefit that can top up your weekly income to £201.05 for single pensioners or £306.85 for couples. In addition to providing financial support, qualifying for Pension Credit may open up eligibility for other benefits, such as the Warm Home Discount and Cold Weather Payment.
4. Other useful resources
- Age UK: Provides advice and assistance to older adults, including information on staying warm and well during winter. They also offer home energy checks to help identify ways to make your home more energy efficient.
- Citizen’s Advice: For those struggling with energy bills, Citizen’s Advice offers guidance on accessing grants and other financial support.
- Energy Suppliers: Many energy suppliers offer payment plans, grants, and advice for customers who are struggling to pay their bills. Contact your supplier to discuss what support is available.
5. Health and wellbeing support
Looking after your health during the winter is just as important as keeping warm. Stay on top of your wellbeing with these additional tips:
- Get vaccinated: The flu jab is free for people over 65, and COVID-19 boosters are available for older adults and those with underlying health conditions. These vaccines can protect you from serious illness.
- Stay active indoors: If getting outside is difficult, try to keep active at home with gentle stretching, chair exercises, or even walking around your house. Movement helps to keep you warm and improve circulation.
- Stay connected: Winter can be isolating, so make an effort to stay in touch with friends and family. If you’re feeling lonely, there are telephone befriending services available, such as those offered by Age UK and Silver Line.
Winter can be a challenging time, but with the right preparation and support, you can stay warm, safe, and well. Be proactive in managing your heating, health, and finances, and don’t hesitate to seek support if you need it. Hever Care is here to help you navigate the winter months, ensuring that you remain comfortable and cared for.
For more information or assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us. Together, we can help you stay well this winter.