All they want for Christmas is – someone to care

14th December 2017

Stockport, like the rest of Britain, has been in the grip of some horribly cold weather recently and the weather experts warn there’s more of it to come.

But while most children (and some big kids too!) can’t wait for the ice and snow to arrive, spare a thought for those who fear the plummeting temperatures.

Every winter about 20,000 people in England died as a result of cold weather – that’s around 385 extra deaths a week compared to the rest of the year.

Sadly most of those die over winter are over 75 and shamefully many of these deaths could be avoided.

As well as this, hundreds of thousands of older people spend much of the winter alone. According to Age UK, many pensioners even spend Christmas Day alone.

But it doesn’t have to be this way if each of us takes time out this winter to look in on an elderly friend or neighbour to make sure they are warm and coping well.

Why not set some time aside to drop in on an older neighbour or friend once a week – more often if the weather turns very cold.

Check their home is warm enough. The main living area should be around 21°C (70°F) and bedrooms should be 18°C (65°F). If they are worried about the costs of heating, check they are receiving their heating bill benefits, such as Winter Fuel Payment and Cold Weather Payment.

Eating hot meals and drinks helps to keep us warm so make sure the person you are looking in on is eating well and food in the cupboard that they can heat up in case they can’t leave the house for a few days.

Many older people take medicines and everyone over 65 should have a free flu jab. Ask if there is anything you can do to help – picking up a prescription or giving them a lift to their GP, for instance.

If they seem to be starting with a bug get some advice from your local pharmacist straight away – that way you can nip any illness in the bud before it gets a hold. And, remember, if you are unwell take real care not to pass it on.

It’s also important for people to keep active and get out but only if it’s safe to do so. Make sure the person you are helping has warm footwear with good grip, a warm coat, hat and gloves. Offer to walk with them if they are not confident alone.