Winter conditions can be seriously bad for our health, especially for people aged 65 or over, and people with longterm health conditions.
It sounds obvious, but one of the best ways of keeping yourself well during winter is to stay warm. Keeping warm can help prevent colds, flu or more serious health conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, pneumonia and depression.
Make sure you keep your home warm. If you have reduced mobility, are 65 or over or have a health condition such as heart or lung disease, you should heat your home to at least 18°C.
And it is a good idea to keep your bedroom at this temperature all night if you can. You can also use a hot water bottle or electric blanket (but not at the same time) to keep warm while you are in bed.
During the day you, may prefer your living room to be slightly warmer. But if you are under 65 and healthy and active, you can safely have your house cooler than 18°C if you are comfortable.
Food is a vital source of energy, which helps keep your body warm, so try to make sure you have hot meals and drinks regularly throughout the day.
Staying active can also keep you warm in winter. If you can stay active, even moderate exercise can bring health benefits. If possible, try not to sit still for more than an hour or so. Remember to speak to your GP before starting any exercise plan.
Make sure you wear enough clothes to stay warm, both inside and out. Make sure you wear shoes with a good grip to prevent slips and falls when walking outside. And, if possible, stay inside during a cold period if you have heart or respiratory problems.
For more advice, visit www.nhs.uk/staywell - remember, cold weather doesn’t have to go hand in hand with illness
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