Help an older person this Winter

This winter, more than ever, let’s come together and look out for each other. There are plenty of simple, practical things we can do to help each other this winter.

Top 6 things you can do to help

1. Encourage people to get the healthcare they need. We know lots of people are worried about going to their GP or seeking help for health concerns. Healthcare services are open and ready to help, so check in with the people in your life and make sure they get the healthcare they need. If you're worried about doing an online consultation, everyone should be able to get a face to face appointment with their GP if they need one
2. Encourage everyone to look after their health. As we get older, we need to take a bit more care of our health - even if we're fit as a fiddle. One of the easiest ways to protect ourselves is to get the free flu jab. If you're aged 50 and over you can get it for free too
3. Make time for relatives, friends and neighbours. Darker nights and miserable weather can make it harder for people to get out and about. Calling for a chat, popping in for a cuppa or even sending a card in the post can really help let someone know you're thinking about them. Know someone who's lonely? Let them know about our telephone befriending service, Friends in Need
4. Ask if people have everything they need. We know lots of people have struggled to get out for the essentials they need in recent months. When it’s cold and the weather takes a turn it may get even harder. Popping out to run a few errands or doing an online shop could be a big help to someone
5. Check their home is warm enough. We'll all likely be spending more time at home this winter meaning higher heating and lighting bills. Around 1 million people aged over 60 live in fuel poverty, meaning they can't afford to heat their homes properly. It is best to heat your home to a comfortable temperature all day. If someone is saying their home is very cold or they're worried about heating their home, encourage them to call Age Cymru Advice on 0300 303 44 98 
6. Help make sure everyone can get out and about safely.  When it's icy or wet outside, it's easier to slip and fall. Helping to keep paths and driveways clear of fallen leaves and debris and salting steps and slopes could make a big difference. Algae is particularly slippery, but power-washing or scrubbing with a stiff brush and soda crystals or white vinegar can get rid of it.