Staying Warm This Winter: Practical and Affordable Tips for Our Elderly Residents

• Two Pairs of Socks: Start with thin cotton socks, then add a pair of wool socks over them. This layering keeps feet warm without cutting off circulation.

• Under-Gloves for Hand Warmth: Thin, soft cotton gloves can be worn underneath regular mittens or gloves, providing extra warmth without bulk, ideal for indoor wear

• "Heated Blanket Zones": Place electric blankets on chairs or favorite sitting spots, not just beds. Use it while you sit or read, as these blankets are more energy-efficient than heating the entire room.

• Morning Sun Exposure: Open curtains and blinds on south-facing windows during sunny mornings to let natural warmth in. Even cloudy winter days can provide enough sunlight to subtly warm a room.

• Use Reflective Panels or Tinfoil: Position foil panels behind radiators on external walls. They’ll reflect heat back into the room rather than letting it escape through the walls.

• Heavy Curtains at Night: Swap to heavier, thermal curtains or hang an extra blanket over existing ones at night to trap warmth inside.
• Hang curtains behind external doors to provide additional protection from draughts. 

Set Up a Cozy Corner: If you have a recliner or a favorite chair, focus on warming that area. Place a thick rug underneath, position a small heater nearby (on low), and add a draft stopper to nearby doors. A heated cushion or lumbar support also keeps your back comfortable and warm.

Make Your Bed an Insulated Zone: Place a wool or fleece blanket between the top sheet and duvet. This extra layer helps trap body heat close.

Utilise a Hot Water Bottle: Try heating a hot water bottle and tucking it near your feet or lower back before getting in; it’ll warm up the bedding and stay warm for hours *Please read our safety tips below before using a hot water bottle.

• Draught-Proof Your Home: Homemade draught stoppers for windowsills and door bottoms can make a big difference. Roll up old towels or use door draught excluders; even rice-filled socks can be effective. This helps prevent warm air from escaping and blocks cold air from seeping in.

• Look to Key Entry Points: Check common draught spots, like unused fireplace dampers, mail slots, and pet doors. A temporary closure with bubble wrap or a rolled towel can reduce these chilly intrusions

• Ceramic Space Heaters: These are often safer and more efficient than older electric heaters, particularly in smaller rooms. They quickly heat up and maintain warmth with minimal energy.

• Electric Foot Warmers and Heated Throws: Unlike central heating, small appliances like electric throws and foot warmers use much less energy and can help you stay warm directly.

• Consider Infrared Heating Panels: Though they require an upfront cost, infrared panels are efficient because they warm people and objects, not the air, making them perfect for warming a small area effectively.

• Boil Water for Tea or Soups: Heating water on the stove can help warm up the kitchen area, and a hot cup of tea or broth provides both physical warmth and hydration.

• Bake Small Batches: Baking or cooking for even short periods heats the kitchen. Use the oven if possible, and after baking, leave the door open slightly to let that warmth circulate in your home (only if it’s safe and no children are around).

• Bubble Wrap on Windows: A surprising but effective tip is to apply bubble wrap on windows to reduce heat loss. Simply cut to size and press onto a damp window. It provides an additional insulating layer and peels off easily without damage.

• Rugs for Bare Floors: Bare floors can absorb heat, making rooms colder. Invest in thick rugs to add an insulating layer over cold flooring. This is particularly helpful in rooms without carpeting or where you tend to sit or walk often.

• Stretching and Gentle Exercise: Regular gentle exercise, even seated, can improve circulation and keep you warmer. Simple stretching or a few steps every hour will also prevent stiffness and contribute to body warmth.

• Alternate Warm and Cool Beverages: Surprisingly, alternating between warm tea and cool water can help regulate body temperature, as sudden spikes in heat can sometimes lead to feeling chilled once they wear off. Consistent hydration helps with natural temperature regulation.

• Visit Local Warm Spaces: Many community centers, libraries, and churches offer "warm spaces" during winter. These spaces are designed to be comfortable, social places where you can spend part of the day without heating your own home.

• Check Out Government Heating Grants and Allowances: In many areas, elderly residents qualify for winter fuel payments, cold weather payments, or other assistance programs. It’s worth checking to see if any new initiatives have been launched to support you during these cold months.