Here in Oxfordshire, winter has definitely set in! On the Oaken Hole estate, we’re lucky enough to be surrounded by beautiful grounds and woodland, so the frosty mornings are a particular delight, with every tree and branch sparkling in the sunshine.
It’s important though to make sure that we’re all looking after ourselves as the weather gets colder. As we grow older, we tend to feel the cold more, and a variety of factors can have a part to play in this. As we age, our metabolic rate tends to decrease, which makes it harder for our bodies to stay warm, especially as this is often combined with decreased muscle mass, which again can make it harder for our bodies to warm themselves.
However, there are lots of ways to warm up even as the temperatures outside plummet! Here are a few of our top tips for looking after yourself in cold weather:
Keep interiors at a comfortable temperature
For older people in particular, it’s very important not to let your space get too cold. Sitting rooms should be kept at 21◦C or higher, with bedrooms slightly cooler at between 16 and 20◦C to aid deep sleep.
Blankets, warm food and drinks, and heated garments like gilets or gloves are a great addition to help keep you toasty on even the coldest of days. Wearing lots of layers is also a great way to trap heat close to your body, keeping you warm throughout the day.
Get moving
One of the quickest and most effective ways of warming up is through light physical activity to generate heat internally. Even something as simple as moving your arms around and wiggling your toes whilst remaining sat in a chair can have positive effects.
Here at the Oaken Holt estate, we always spend lots of time engaging in gentle exercise for the many health benefits it brings.
Get your vaccinations
Many older people are eligible for flu, coronavirus, shingles and pneumonia jabs, and taking up this offer is a great way to stay well through the colder months. Respiratory viruses are much more common in the winter, so it’s important to stay up to date with vaccinations.
Stay connected
When the weather gets colder, it can be tempting to hunker down at home, but it’s very important for your mental wellbeing to make sure you stay connected to people. Whether that’s phoning a loved one, inviting a friend round for a cup of tea, or heading out to a community event, social connection has essential mental health benefits.
Here at Oaken Holt, we’ve got some fantastic activities coming up this winter which are open to anyone who’d like to attend. We’d love to see you at any of our upcoming events!
