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Staying safe and well at home

Stay at home

The Government has asked everyone in the UK to stay at home. This means even people who may not be at a high risk should only leave the house for limited reasons. These measures are to help prevent the spread of the virus, and protect the most vulnerable.

To help stop the spread of coronavirus and safeguard the health of those at greatest risk, the Government has said we all need to stay at home, only leaving for limited reasons and not at all if we are in a high risk group. This is to reduce close contact with other people and help slow the spread of COVID19

Being asked to stay at home and stop having close contact with family and friends probably sounds difficult. You might be feeling worried, scared, sad or even a bit angry. That’s normal, but it’s important to know you’re not alone.

Age UK is here to support you during this challenging time. We’ve outlined some tips to help stay safe and well over the coming weeks.

Staying safe

Making sure you're safe at home is a priority. From spotting scams to help with domestic abuse, we have information to help.

Your wellbeing

We're all facing big changes to our normal activities and routines. Looking after our mental and physical health is going to be very important.

Is coronavirus making you anxious?

It's perfectly natural to feel like that in the face of all the news headlines. Here are some things you can doing to feel less worried during this confusing time.

More information

Feeling unwell? The symptoms of coronavirus are

  • high temperature – if you don’t have a thermometer check if you feel hot to the touch on your chest or back
  • a continuous dry cough meaning you are coughing repeatedly

If you develop these symptoms, do not go to the GP, pharmacy or hospital. Stay at home and self-isolate for 7 days.

You may also experience symptoms including breathlessness, a sore throat or a runny nose. Treat these symptoms as normal at home by:

  • resting, keeping well hydrated and eating little and often.
  • taking paracetamol if necessary to help with your temperature.
  • continue to take your normal medications.

Call 111 or seek medical attention if:

  • you cannot cope with your symptoms at home.
  • your condition gets worse – especially if you are struggling to catch your breath or have chest pain.
  • your symptoms do not get better after 7 days.

Learn more about coronavirus

Coronavirus: a short guide

This information guide looks at the symptoms of coronavirus, how you can reduce the risk of catching the virus and spreading it to others, and how you can continue to look after yourself and others.

Read it here (PDF, 3 MB)

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