Keeping Warm this Winter – 6 Tips to Help you

Winter has arrived in Western Australia! We all know that keeping warm in winter can be a challenge. For older people, keeping warm is even more important as the cold is more likely to adversely affect them, or aggravate existing medical conditions. At Home Care Assistance, we understand the effect that cold weather can have on the elderly and have put together 6 Tips on helping to keep warm.

Staying warm begins with wearing appropriate clothing. Layers can be great if you live in an area that is cold overnight but warms up during the day, like we are in Perth. Having the right clothing may require getting clothes out of storage, and making sure you have enough clothes in good condition for the cold weather. If you are getting clothes out of storage, make sure you do this safely and ask a family member or Carer to help. Your Home Care Assistance can also help you go shopping for anything you need.

2. Have your Blankets close by

It is now time to get your blankets out of storage and make sure they are clean and ready for you to use. Put an extra blanket on your bed, and another near your favourite chair or couch so they are handy and easy to grab when needed. Your Home Care Assistance Carer can help you get your blankets out and ready if you need a hand.

3. Get your Draught Stoppers Ready

Heating costs can rise when you have draughts, make sure the gaps under your doorways are covered with draught stoppers to stop heat escaping. If you need these, you can purchase them from stores like Bunnings.

4. Check Your Heater

There is nothing worse than finding your heater has stopped working from last winter when the first cold snap hits. Heater repair people also tend to get an influx of calls with the first cold snap which can result in longer waiting times for repairs. It is a good idea to turn your heater on and check it is working before it gets cold so you have peace of mind that the heater will work when you need it.

5. Only Heat the Rooms you use

To reduce your electricity bills in the Winter only heat the rooms you use. Consider closing off rooms you don’t use, this will keep the cost down and make it easier to heat the rooms you use. An example is only heating your bedroom before bedtime, not the entire day.

6. Find your Heat Packs

Heat packs such as wheat packs and hot water bottles can be great for keeping you warm this winter. Always make sure you follow the instructions, so you do not overheat them and damage them, or burn yourself.

Cold weather is much more bearable if you are prepared. follow these steps to get yourself or a loved one ready for winter. If you receive Home Care Assistance, talk to them about helping you get ready for winter so they can help you do this safely.

Support of a home carer agency like Home Care Assistance, can bring enormous benefit and comfort to your quality of life while living independently at home. Home Care Assistance has viable solutions when it comes to supporting independent living. For more information, get in touch with Home Care Assistance West Coast Perth.