Stay safe and warm this week
Posted on 26th February 2018
Most of us will suffer during the extreme cold snap predicted for this week, but many older people will suffer more than most.
Third Age, in touch with hundreds of older people in Ireland through its many programmes, calls today for an awareness campaign by families, friends and neighbours on behalf of older people, and speaks directly to older people themselves. Aine Brady is CEO of Third Age: “We know that older people are less mobile and can lose body heat quickly. If you are ill or frail you may have special problems keeping warm. We would be worried about hypothermia should body temperature get very low and older person on their own may not realise what is happening,” she said.
“As an older person, keep in touch with the people in your life. Let them know how you are. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If necessary, ask shops and pharmacies to deliver groceries or medication. We are also calling on family, friends and neighbours to be particularly aware that older people may be in danger this week. Check on them, call, phone, ask to do their shopping, collect medicines, bring in fuel. Visit your family member, bring them a hot meal and share some time with them,” she says.
Damian Leneghan, Programme Manager of SeniorLine, Ireland’s only peer telephone service for older people managed by Third Age, draws attention to the problem of social isolation during extreme weather conditions. “Many of our callers who live on their own will be nervous about going out this week, and for some of them it could be hazardous. However, depression and loneliness could set in quite quickly. We encourage our callers to use radio and television to keep in touch with the world outside so you don’t feel so alone. Phone or text family and friends. Freephone SeniorLine open every day this week and every week from 10am till 10pm, FreeFone 1800 80 45 91. You may be alone, but don’t feel isolated, stay in touch with the people who care about you,” he says.
Tips for keeping warm inside
Set your heat to at least 68-70 degrees F. Close off rooms not in use to save money.
Dress warmly indoors, wear a number of light layers, have a blanket on your legs and wear socks.
Eat warm foods like soups and stews. Take frequent hot drinks.
Get up and move around regularly during the day.
Ask for help if you need it.
Phone SeniorLine 1800 80 45 91
Tips for staying warm outside
Wear hat, scarf, gloves, warm or waterproof coat and shoes with good traction and non-slip soles.
Don’t go out unnecessarily in icy conditions, but if it’s safe, take a short sheltered walk each day.
Change your clothes immediately if you get wet.
Reminders for relatives, friends and neighbours
Don’t assume someone else is calling or keeping in touch with an older person this week. Find out for sure.
Network with the family, make sure your relative is safe, warm and well stocked up.
As a neighbour, visit or keep in touch by phone.
Available for interview Anne Dempsey, Communications Manager, Third Age
087 745 0721
