Winter Wellbeing
Over the winter months, we will be focusing on a range of information, advice and tips to keep you warm and well during the colder weather. We all know when winter’s on it’s way. But with increasingly unpredictable weather, it’s important to think about getting things ready for the colder months in advance. Look out for our winter messages on our social media each week.
We will cover a variety of Winter Related Topics including – take a glimpse below!
Flu and Covid-19 Autumn booster vaccinations
Last winter in Norwich, 82.6% of people aged 65 and over had the flu vaccination, exceeding the World Health Organisation’s recommended target of 75%. Uptake for the Covid-19 autumn booster in 22/23 in this region was 70%
Let us protect ourselves and those around us
Flu is most prevalent in October to March and it is much more than just a nasty cold. Last winter, it’s estimated there were around 12,500 excess winter deaths amongst the 65+ cohort attributed to flu in England. This winter it is more important than ever to make sure that we protect ourselves and others around us.
Sign up for Cold weather alerts
Did you know that the Met Office, in collaboration with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), issues cold weather alerts when winter weather is most likely to significantly impact people’s health. For example, when the temperature is due to drop below 2°C for 48 hours or longer and during periods of heavy snow or ice. Alerts are sent out from 1st November to 31st March every year.
It is useful to know this information as it might be more dangerous to drive or walk in these conditions. They also serve as useful prompts to check on family, friends and neighbours to make sure that they have everything they need to keep them warm and well.
Click below to find out more
Keeping safe in winter weather
It is well known that the cold and gloomy weather can affect our moods. The cold weather can be unpredictable, and it can stop us getting out an about sometimes. It is worth making sure you’re prepared if we are told to expect severe weather especially, winter storms, ice or snow. However, there are many simple and practical ways to make the winter months a bit easier.
Click below to find out how to make your winter a bit easier.
Keeping well in Winter
There are lots of proactive ways of keeping yourself well during the winter months. Find out more by clicking here How to Keep Warm in Winter | Age UK
Looking after others
Making time for relatives, friends and neighbours is essential. Darker nights and miserable weather can make it harder for people to get out and about. And if you're stuck at home, you might end up feeling lonely or out of sorts. 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.
Please click on the link below to see how we can encourage and support each other this winter.
Staying connected
Did you know that you can call The Silver Line Helpline for free on 0800 4 70 80 90. Lines are open every day of the year, 24 hours a day. You might be choosing to meet up in person less often this winter – but a phone call or video call with a loved one can make a huge difference to how we feel. Whether it's just picking up the phone when you fancy a chat, or making it a regular part of your routine, it's important to stay connected.
Support with benefits and money
Winter is often an expensive time of year. If you're worrying more about money, you might be entitled to a bit of extra financial support, and a few simple changes to your home could help save you money this winter.
Food Assistance at Christmas
Falls prevention
Take extra care if the ground is slippery! Wear shoes with good grip and consider keeping salt and sand mixture handy to grit paths. You could ask your neighbours for help to clear paths or driveways in bad weather.