Dermot Power, consultant geriatrician, Mater hospital
Hypothermia is not as common as you might think, but it still happens. Cold hands, feet, pale skin, puffiness in the face, clumsiness, sleepiness or blacking out are symptoms that older people, their friends and neighbours should be mindful of. Steps to guard against hypothermia include:
Wearing layers to trap the heat and help insulate you.
Wearing mittens rather than gloves. With mittens, the fingers heat each other.
Doing light housework indoors to keep warm rather than clearing the snow from the footpath outside.
If you’re going outside, be sure to wear a hat and scarf to avoid losing the heat through your head.
Mental stimulation is important too. If you’re inside, days can run into each other. If you can’t get out and about, have a phone conversation, keep the brain active and the TV and radio aren’t bad company either.
With less sunlight this time of year, it’s important get enough vitamin D. Lack of vitamin D can cause weakened bones and muscles and has been linked with depression. Use an over-the-counter supplement or eat plenty of oily fish.
Hilda Griffin, dietitian, St Mary’s Hospital, Phoenix Park
Keep the cupboards stocked up for the days you might not be able to get out. Frozen, tinned or pre-packed food is fine for this time of year.
Porridge is great for the morning. It’s quick, full of nutrients, high in fibre and you can add sugar and milk to increase the food value.
Buy things that are quick and easy to prepare such as creamy soups that you can heat up quickly in the microwave.
Scrambled eggs, cheese on toast or a baked potato with beans are all fast and nutritious.
Have plenty of hot drinks to keep warm. Hot milk, cocoa or Ovaltine made with milk are more nutritious than tea.
Though the risk of dehydration is lower in cold weather, be sure to stay hydrated too with six-eight cups of fluid a day, be it water, tea, milk or juice.
John Brennan, Irish Association of Social Workers and chairman of the special interest group on ageing
Keeping active and warm is important. Many older people may not feel the cold as much as you or I, but the important thing is to not get cold.
Keep the heat on, even at a low setting. While the majority will know about the fuel allowances and electricity grants, there are some who have not yet availed of them.
We’d advise people not to sit for long periods or to stay in bed all day just because it’s warmer. While roads and footpaths are dangerous at this time, we’d encourage people to stay active within the house, to walk around and stay as active as they can indoors.
Older people living in cities can still feel isolated, so we’d encourage friends and neighbours to drop in or phone elderly neighbours. A regular phone call lets them know you care and that someone is looking out for them.
