Winter warmth tips for older relatives and neighbours

With evenings drawing in and temperatures falling, winter is making its presence felt. Dovida Waterford offers some useful tips and practices that can be put in place to ensure our older relatives, friends and neighbours stay warm, safe and cared for over the winter months.

Steven Tubbritt, General Manager of Dovida Waterford says it is our collective responsibility to ensure our older population is particularly well looked after during the winter.

“We would ask people to check in on older family and friends over the coming weeks and make sure they are winter ready.  Make sure the house is well stocked with the essentials, such as batteries for the smoke alarm, medicines, particularly repeat prescriptions and plenty of non-perishable food, so they don’t have to venture out in the cold and dark.”
 
Steven advises that encouraging our older relatives to wear several thin layers of clothes, instead of one heavy layer and to keep all internal windows and door closed to keep heat in, will keep them warmer longer throughout the day
 
“It is important that seniors eat regular hot meals, as the body keeps warm by burning the food we eat.  Porridge is an excellent source of nutrients, it’s quick and easy to prepare and fuels the body for hours.”
 
Other tips include:

• Clear pathways of wet leaves, which pose a trip hazard
• Keep all emergency / contact numbers close at hand
• Block draughts and keep curtains closed at night to retain heat
• Ensure electrical devices are unplugged at night
• Have Eircode beside phone to assist emergency services in reaching property quicker in case of an emergency.

“Please make an extra effort to call in on an older relative or neighbour over the next few months.  If they are dependent on solid fuels for heating, bring a bale of briquettes or a bag of coal. Doing a grocery shop is also helpful and practical as they will have all the essentials at hand to get through the next few days.”
 
Dovida providers during times of adverse weather conditions will always prioritise care to the most vulnerable, like those who live alone.  If you are unable to help out with your loved one, please let your home care provider know.
 
Visit www.dovida.ie/local-office/waterford or call Dovida Waterford on 051 333966 if you are concerned about the welfare of a older family relative or neighbour.
 
Dovida Waterford also offers an array of senior care services such as light housekeeping and laundry, meal preparation, transport and companionship, up to and including personal care, dementia care, post hospital care and disability care.