Guardian Angel Carers, a long-established home care specialist with branches across the UK, has provided concise guidance for families and loved ones concerned about the impacts of the colder weather as winter draws in.
The company advises that acting now and putting planning in place to protect the well-being, health and comfort of older and vulnerable people is key, where booking flu jabs, checking that heating systems are working, and organising regular visiting care can prevent avoidable hardships.
Actionable Recommendations to Safeguard Home Care Recipients in the Winter
Charities like Age UK note that aspects of winter, such as the cost of central heating, the effects of the cold on aches and pains, the potential to catch the flu, and the difficulties of staying active, are all genuine health risks for older adults and those reliant on home care.
Vikki Craig-Vickers, MD of Guardian Angel Carers, says, 'As we approach the middle of autumn, the nights are drawn in, the clocks go back, and the leaves start to fall. At the same time, countless families become worried about the welfare of their loved ones amid longer hours of darkness and hazards of ice and subzero temperatures, which, in so many cases, increase isolation.
Preparing for the winter months is hugely beneficial, not only for your peace of mind that you are ready for snow and ice but also to ensure that older, frail, less mobile, and vulnerable loved ones know they will be properly looked after.
This list of tips is general guidance, and you may need to make particular arrangements based on your location and the care needs of loved ones. If you have any concerns about the winter period, please feel welcome to contact your nearest Guardian Angel Carers branch to chat with one of our experienced home care managers.’
Managing Health Concerns and Vaccinations
Cold weather, less fresh air, and more time indoors mean infections and viruses can spread faster, so carers advise recipients to book their flu vaccination in good time. The flu jab is free of charge for all people aged 65 and above and those with certain health concerns.
Adults can book a flu jab through their GP or schedule a free appointment from a local pharmacy.
It is important to recognise the signs of a more serious medical concern, such as hypothermia or pneumonia. Families can educate themselves about the symptoms and causes, especially if a relative has a respiratory or cardiac condition that makes them more susceptible.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can also have ramifications. It is caused by a lack of daylight and presents as a low mood, a lack of energy, and diminished interest.
Concerns about SAD should be reported to a healthcare professional since it can be tackled with supplements, healthy nutrition, and using synthetic lamps and bulbs that replicate sunlight.
Expert Advice on Remaining Physically Well
It’s important to understand that home care costs may also rise if additional services are needed to ensure comfort during the winter. Keeping a home warm, dry and ventilated is crucial, and relatives worried about older and vulnerable adults sacrificing heating due to costs can step in.
While the Winter Fuel Allowance has been reformed, anybody eligible for Pension Credits should register to ensure they maintain the allowance, which is worth up to £300.
Pre-booking regular home delivery slots for groceries is beneficial, especially in regions with a high likelihood of snow, making access to public transport, walking, or driving hazardous.
Families can also print a list of emergency numbers to ensure these are readily available. While most emergencies require a call to 111 or 999, adults may also need a reminder of the 105 number to report a power cut.
Urgent supplies are available via the Ofcom Priority Service for vulnerable people.
Organising Welfare Checks and Visiting Care Over the Winter
Guardian Angel Carers also recommends families living some distance away from older relatives consider booking check-ins and visiting care, where a qualified, professional carer can attend the home of a loved one on a pre-agreed schedule to verify they are happy, warm, well and healthy.
Vikki adds, 'It’s common for older people and those with limited mobility to feel cut off when the weather is very cold, due to the worry of slips and falls or lacking confidence driving or walking in icy weather.
CarersAngels can help with a wide array of tasks, from providing companionship and emotional support to trips to the shops and social groups, assisting with personal care, medications, and pet care, or simply making sure an older adult isn't alone.’
Families looking to schedule care either on an ongoing basis or over the winter period can contact Guardian Angel Carers online or get in touch with the local care manager through the company’s website.
Read more about Guardian Angel Carers - Guardian Angel Carers Publishes Checklist to Help Households Identify the Right Time to Source In-Home Care Support
About Guardian Angel Carers
Guardian Angel Carers is a leading home care provider dedicated to delivering compassionate, personalised care services. With a strong focus on independence, dignity, and quality of life, the company supports individuals in the comfort of their own homes, offering a range of services from companionship to complex care needs.
Media Contact:
Vikki Craig-Vickers
03333 660550
www.gacarers.co.uk
******
Source Company – https://www.gacarers.co.uk/
Source: Digital PR
Release ID: 1158783
