Preparing for Winter - Simple Steps to Stay Healthy and Well

As the days become shorter and temperatures begin to drop, now is the perfect time to think about preparing for winter. Winter can bring additional challenges for our health, particularly for older people, young children, those with long-term health conditions, and people with weakened immune systems. 

Taking a few simple steps now can help you and your family stay healthy, independent, and well throughout the colder months. 

Protect Yourself with Vaccinations

One of the most effective ways to protect yourself and those around you is to take up the vaccinations you are eligible for.

Each winter, viruses such as flu circulate widely and can cause serious illness, particularly among older adults and people with underlying health conditions. Flu is not simply a bad cold. It can lead to complications such as pneumonia, hospital admission, and in some cases can be life-threatening.  The seasonal flu vaccine helps reduce your risk of becoming seriously unwell and helps protect vulnerable people in our communities. If you are eligible, take up the offer of a flu vaccination as soon as you are invited.

Many people may also be eligible for other important vaccinations, including COVID-19 boosters, pneumococcal vaccination, shingles vaccination, and the RSV vaccine for older adults and pregnant women. These programmes play a vital role in reducing illness and protecting those most at risk.  If you are unsure which vaccinations you are eligible for, speak to your GP practice, pharmacist, or visit this NHS website for the latest information: NHS vaccinations and when to have them.

Keep Warm

Cold homes can increase the risk of illness, particularly for older people and those with existing health conditions.

To help stay warm this winter:

• Wear several thin layers of clothing rather than one thick layer.
• Keep active where possible. 
• Close curtains at dusk to help retain heat. 
• Ensure boilers and heating systems are checked and serviced. 
• Seek advice early if you are struggling with heating costs or household bills. 

Healthy Homes Dorset provides free impartial advice on making your home more energy efficient and may be able help with free insulation or heating systems.   

Stay Well This Winter 

Good winter health is about more than avoiding illness. Maintaining healthy habits can help build resilience throughout the season. 

Remember to: 

• Eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated. 
• Keep physically active, even if activity needs to move indoors. 
• Wash your hands regularly to help prevent the spread of infections. 
• Cover coughs and sneezes and dispose of tissues promptly. 
• Stay at home if you are unwell and avoid visiting vulnerable people until you have recovered. 

For more advice and information about local services, visit Stay Well Dorset.  

Looking After Older Residents 

Cold weather can have a significant impact on health, particularly for older people. As we age, our bodies can find it harder to stay warm, increasing the risk of serious health problems such as heart attacks, strokes, respiratory illnesses and falls. Family members, friends and neighbours can make a real difference by checking in regularly with older residents during cold periods. 

Some helpful steps include: 

• Keeping homes heated to a comfortable temperature.
• Ensuring enough food and medication supplies are available.
• Checking that heating systems are working properly.
• Making sure walkways and entrances are clear and well lit.
• Encouraging attendance at vaccination appointments.
• Helping people stay socially connected during the winter months.
• Updating a list of important contact numbers, including GP surgeries, pharmacies and emergency contacts.
• Offering to be their ICE (in case of emergency) contact. 

Just a brief phone call, a visit or an offer of practical support can help someone feel safer and more supported.

Prepare now and think ‘community’ 

Winter can be a challenging time for many people. By taking up vaccinations, preparing our homes, and checking in on friends, family and neighbours, we can help ensure everyone in our communities stays safe, healthy and connected.