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As the cold season of winter approaches, it's more important than ever to keep safe and well, especially if you're part of the older generation or disabled community.
Although the seasonal weather can make it harder to get out and about, there are many things you can do to stay safe and in good health during winter. In this blog, we'll reveal our TOP 7 tips for winter wellness.
Keep reading to discover them all!
1) Keep active
Our first and most important tip for you is to keep active!
A little bit of fresh air every day can do us plenty of good. Not only does it make us feel happier, but it also improves our strength and mobility.
Even when you're cosy at home, you should get up and move around the house every so often. Avoid sitting still for more than an hour at a time.
2) Take care outdoors
When you do spend some time outside, take extra care if the weather is rainy or frosty. Fallen leaves, damp grounds, and ice can make paths extra slippery.
Make sure to wear shoes with a good grip, and use salt to grit paths close to your home. In the rare cases we get snow in Hampshire, it's best to stay at home as snow can put you at risk of falls.
3) Wrap up warm
Another good tip for braving the outdoors is wrapping up warm for the winter weather.
It's best to wear multiple thin layers instead of one thick layer, as layers of clothes trap warm air between them. So, be extra prepared and take a few more layers with you, even if you don't use them straight away.
If you find it too cold to sleep at night, consider wearing warmer nightwear with some thick, fluffy socks. This will help you get a cosier, restful sleep.
4) Keep your home warm
Although it may be more challenging this year, it's essential to keep your home as warm as possible, especially in the rooms you use the most. We have a few mini tips which can help you keep your home warm whilst saving energy costs.
Turn off spare radiators
If there are rooms in your house that you don't regularly use, such as a spare bedroom, turn off the radiators and close the doors. This will save you a few pennies on your energy bill.
Keep curtains open during the daytime
Throughout the day, keep your window curtains open as more heat from the sunlight will be let into your home.
Stop draughts
When the sun sets, be sure to close all your curtains and keep any windows closed to prevent draughts and heat loss. Keeping doors around the house closed will also be beneficial.
Use hot water bottles
Another good way to save some money on your energy bills whilst keeping warm is by using hot water bottles. Placing a hot water bottle under a blanket or duvet is a great way to stay warm, especially when sleeping.
You should NEVER use a hot water bottle under or with an electric blanket.
5) Eat well
Make sure to eat well and regularly, and make a meal plan if you find motivation difficult. Have a good range of foods, as eating healthily will help you avoid illnesses and boost your immune system.
You should also eat warm foods like soup or stew when the weather is cold to keep you feeling warmer. It's also a sensible idea to stay stocked up on essential foods and ingredients in case you can't get outside one day due to illness or severe weather.
6) Keep note of emergency contacts
It's best to keep a note of all the emergency contacts you may need in case of a fall or emergency.
Keep these contacts nearby or in your phone for easy access, as you'll never know when you need them most. Even get your neighbour's contacts if they can help you in the event you get stuck at home or need support.
7) Look out for others
For our final tip, look out for others!
You won't be the only person who finds the winter a struggle; in fact, the cold weather can affect all of us. A good way to start is by sharing these tips with others, especially if you know someone who is disabled or an elder.
Stay in touch with friends, family, and neighbours. Everyone can feel a little lonely at this time of year, so having a quick chat can be just the thing to make someone's day.
We hope you found our tips useful! Take care of yourself this winter.
If you have any issues with your mobility aids over the cold season, give us a call and we'll assist you as soon as possible. At Solent Mobility Centre, we're always here to support you and your loved ones.