Keeping well in winter
Carers need to look after their own health in winter so that they are well enough to carry on caring. They often neglect their own health needs because they are so busy looking after others. Top winter tips for carers:
Get a flu jab – getting a flu jab is vital for carers. It’s the best way to protect yourself and the person you care for from flu this winter. It’s free to everyone aged 65 or over and to carers. Flu can be very serious indeed, especially if the person you care for is particularly vulnerable. Flu can easily lead to complications such as bronchitis and pneumonia. Contact your GP or pharmacist to arrange for a vaccination. Keep your home warm – more than two million homes are in fuel poverty, which means that many people struggle to pay for heating. There are ways to help keep warm in winter. Open your curtains during the day to make the most of free heat from the sunshine, then close them when it gets dark. Block out draughts from windows and doors and wear several layers of warm clothing. Service your heating carers and those they care for often need the heating on constantly in winter. Have your heating system serviced every year to make sure it runs efficiently. Make sure you claim all the financial support you can to help with heating bills. Most people born before August 5, 1953 are entitled to the Winter Fuel Payment. Eat well – it’s tempting to fill up on unhealthy food in winter but it’s important to keep to a healthy diet including five portions of fruit and vegetables a day. Milk, dairy produce, cheese and yogurts help your immune system. Eating a bowl of porridge every morning will give you more energy and make you feel fuller for longer. Keep to your routine – it can be an extra effort to get out and about in winter but carers especially need a break from the house. Try to go to your usual activities and take a short walk every day if you’re able.
Where to get help
Visit www.nhs.uk for advice about healthy eating in winter and looking after yourself. Age UK’s Winter Wrapped Up guide has useful information about keeping well and warm in winter. Call 0808 169 65 65 or visit www.ageuk.org.uk