Why do older people feel the cold more?

As we get older our metabolism naturally decreases, meaning we feel the cold more. We also tend to get a little less active as we age, which means our body isn’t being naturally warmed up through cardiovascular exercise. Similarly, sometimes our skin thins and we lose weight in both fat and muscle – all of which act as insulators. With less insulation we lose heat quicker. So what can we do to keep warm in the winter? Let’s take a look…

How To Keep Warm In The Winter

1. Keep the heating at a sensible level

Home based heating is the best way to keep warm and snug this winter. Set your thermostat to a snug temperature (the NHS recommends a minimum of 18 degrees Celsius if you’re over 65 years old) and keep toasty! The Government has announced a Green Homes Grant that may help older people stay warmer this winter – take a look at Age UK’s website for more information. 

2. Invest in a snuggly hot water bottle

Being cold in bed is never good – it can lead to poor sleep, exhaustion and restlessness. Being cold at night can also put you at risk of developing illnesses. To mitigate the cold, invest in a fluffy hot water bottle that you can have with you as you go to bed.

3. Draught excluders

Try to identify where the cold air enters your house. If you have vents above windows, close them, and add draught excluders to any external doors. Draw curtains at dusk to help limit the amount of cold air that enters. Preventing cold air from entering your home will help to keep your house at a comfortable temperature for longer and will help you to save money on your heating bills.

4. Clothing

Ensure you’re keeping warm with jumpers and invest in some thermal socks with grippy soles. These will keep your feet snug, whilst helping to reduce the risk of falls. If you feel like it, a slanket or onesie can be a great way to keep your whole body warm and snug!

5. Hot drinks and meals

Eating warm food and drinking hot drinks will help you warm during the winter. Try to have several hot drinks spread across the day. If you find that you are especially cold at night, bring a mug of sugar-free and caffeine-free tea with you to bed, alongside your hot water bottle. You’ll be warm in no time! 

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5 Fantastic Christmas gifts for seniors 

1. Thermal non slip socks

As the winter draws in, we’re all finding ourselves tapping that thermostat much more regularly. But sometimes, our extremities can still feel the chill. Thermal socks to keep your feet toasty are a great present for any age group! Making sure they have good grip with non-slip bottoms is essential for any older wearer. Keep your loved one snuggly and safe at the same time! Choose from a wide range of designs and colours – or even upgrade to full slipper socks with a good grip for extra warmth and comfort. 

2. Customised photo gifts

A photo speaks a thousand words – so why not create a lovely memory for your loved one to look at and smile? Create a collage or frame a special photo – or think a little outside the box. Nowadays, it’s easy to order custom made photo blankets, coffee mugs or wall displays. Create a custom photo keychain, so your loved one can carry around that precious memory all day everyday!

Take a look at Snapfish for customised photo gifts including mugs, jigsaws, keychains, magnets and more.

3. Calendars

Buying your loved one a calendar is always appreciated, especially if you take care to pick a theme that you know they will enjoy. Alternatively, why not combine forces and create a personalised photo calendar, so every month they’ll be able to remember a new memory.

4. Keyfinders

A very practical present for someone who always loses their keys! Invest in a keyfinder that links to their phone or alternatively, one that responds to certain noises. For example, this keyfinder from Boots will respond to a whistle. Attach the keyfinder a bunch of keys and whistle – listen for the alarm and follow the noise and the lights!

5. Luxury treats

It’s Christmas after all, so we all deserve a little bit of luxury! If you’re looking for fantastic gifts for seniors, consider some liquor chocolates, bubble baths, a favourite tipple or perfume. Luxuriant moisturisers designed for older skin and hand and foot lotion will also go down a storm.

6. Portable massagers

Massages are expensive – so why not purchase a portable massager that your loved one can use at home! Choose from a wide range of styles and price points.

7. Light alarm clock

For elderly people that may be hard of hearing, why not invest in a light alarm clock? These nifty devices are very popular nowadays and provide a more gentle, natural wake up to light instead of sound.

Take a look at this handy list of light alarm clocks!

8. Succulents

Perfect for anyone that loves nature, but maybe doesn’t have the time or ability to look after a demanding plant. Succulents are cheerful, easy to care for and can be displayed in a variety of great ways!

Should you be considering begifting some in-home assistance to your elderly loved one this winter, take a look at our list of services or get in touch today!

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1. The Fishmarket Gallery

Once upon a time this building was the old Fishmarket hall – now it’s home to local and independent artists and their studios, along with some shops. Spend a delightful few hours browsing the designs on offer and taking in some art!

2. Abington Museum

The Abington Park Museum is free to enter and features a number of local points of interest including an indepth look at the local leather trade.

3. Brampton Valley Way

Brampton Valley Way is a park which goes all the way from Northampton to Market Harborough. The park is one long line. built on an old railway line – perfect for Sunday afternoon walks! Bring a picnic and take in the natural beauty.

4. Northampton Museum and Art Gallery

Learn all about the history of Northampton here! If shoes are you thing, be sure to take a look at the new shoe galleries featuring an Arts Council England Designated collection. 

5. Rockingham Forest and Fermyn Woods Country Park

The forest is over 200 square miles, so it’s perfect for a walking day! In the centre of the forest lies Fermyn Woods Country Park, complete with ponds, meadows and plenty to explore. 

6. The Church of St. Mary The Virgin

This Grade I listed building dates way back to the 13th century and features the coat of arms of George Washington in the stained glass windows. The reverend in 1720 was Lawrence Washington – the president’s great great grandfather.

7. The Queen Eleanor Cross

One of a series of Eleanor Crosses across England celebrating the life of Eleanor, wife of King Edward 1st. The crosses were erected to mark the nightly resting-places of her body as it was taken to Westminster Abbey. There are Eleanor crosses at Lincoln, Grantham and Stamford, Geddington, Hardingstone, Stony Stratford, Woburn,Dunstable, St Albans, Waltham Cross, Cheapsite, and most famously Charing Cross. 

8. The Montagu Monuments

These monuments feature a series of statues commemorating the Montagu family, who had their roots in Northampton.

9. Narrow Gauge Railway Museum

This museum is all about the rail industry. It features various locomotives and is set in a stunning country park – perfect for a museum, walk and picnic day!

10. Iron Trunk 

The Iron Trunk is a Georgian aqueduct which takes the Grand Union Canal over the Ouse.

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Quick And Simple Meals : Breakfast

Yogurt Parfait – no cooking required

This delightful dish is incredibly easy to make and looks amazing! Simply pop some yoghurt into a bowl, add some berries or fruit and nuts, and finish with a dollop of honey, syrup or jam. No cooking required!

Easy-cook porridge – microwave only

Oat So Simple and various supermarket own brands provide porridge in simple to cook sachets. Simply empty the sachet into a microwave-friendly bowl, add milk (there’s a handy measuring line on your sachet) and microwave for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir, let cool a little, and enjoy! Add some berries or fresh fruit for an extra tasty breakfast. 

Banana pancakes 

Perfect for overripe bananas! Pop 350g of self-raising, 1 tablespoon of baking powder and a pinch of salt into a bowl. In another bowl, mash 2 bananas and whisk in 2 eggs, 250ml of milk and a dash of vanilla extract. Mix it all together until smooth and cook on the hob with a generous blob of butter. Serve with banana slices or syrup for an extra hit of flavour. 

Lunch 

Caprese salad – no cooking required

Chop up mozzarella and large salad tomatoes and add to a bed of washed spinach leaves. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and add a spoonful of pesto for an extra flavour kick. 

Scrambled eggs and toast – microwave only

Beat two eggs in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 30 seconds. Check consistency and microwave for a further 30s if needed. Add your eggs to some toast- and voila! A tasty lunch!

Chorizo and pepper omelette 

Chop mild chorizo and fry in a small frying pan until it releases juices. Add some chopped red pepper and some olive oil. Beat 2 eggs and pour in to the pan, making sure to cover all the ingredients. When eggs are firm, flip omelette to ensure an even cook. Top tip! If you find it hard to flip the omelette, cut it in half with a silicone spatula while it’s still in the pan. 

Dinner

Veggie cous-cous – no cooking required

Bring a kettle to the boil and pop your cous-cous into a heatproof bowl. Add boiling water and place a plate on top. Leave for 10 mins. Chop up peppers, spring onions, tomatoes, avocado and some feta. Mix everything together and finish with a sprinkle of basil and some olive oil. 

Tuna jacket potatoes – microwave only

Half your large jacket potatoes and microwave as per packet instructions. Add a dollop of butter and a tin of drained tuna. For an extra kick, why not add a little raw white onion and mayonnaise to your tuna?

Simple prawny pasta

Boil spaghetti as per packet instructions. Meanwhile, chop up 2 garlic cloves and fry over a low heat. Add prawns, tomato puree and 2 tablespoons of white wine and fry over high heat until wine has evaporated. Mix the sauce into the drained spaghetti and serve with grated cheese.

So there you have it! Some quick and easy meals that don’t scrimp on the taste! Should you decide you’d like someone to come in to help with food shopping and meal prep, our friendly team can assist. Just get in touch today. 

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1. Downsize

One of the biggest releases of cash can come from your property. If you are still living in your own property, consider downsizing your home to suit your needs. You may find yourself still living alone or with your partner in your family home. If the kids are grown and flown the nest, you might not need to stay in a multiple bedroom home.

Downsizing can provide a serious financial injection, and also allows you to reevaluate your needs as you get older. Perhaps you’re looking to avoid stairs – now’s the perfect time to find a bungalow or flat. Or maybe you’re looking for a walk in shower? Downsizing provides the perfect opportunity to invest in your future.

You could also consider moving into assisted living or retirement communities. This might alleviate the need to keep maintaining your home, and you can often just pay one monthly fee, instead of fussing with bills, council tax etc.

2. Discounts

There are some fantastic senior discounts available if you know where to look. Many restaurants offer early bird discounts, which are favoured by retired people. Similarly, cinemas, some theatres and hotels offer cracking discounts for the over 65’s. Not to mention the senior railcard offers a third off off-peak train travel for the over 60’s, and many cities offer free bus passes for the over 65’s. 

3. Freebies 

As well as a free bus pass, take advantage of other freebies available. If you’re on o2, o2 priority often offers free coffees, treats, cinema tickets and books. Don’t forget, you also qualify for free prescriptions when over 60. 

As you have more time on your hands, be sure to take advantage of free events, museums and other activities in the city in which you live.

4. Phone Plan

If you have a mobile, chances are that you are still on a similar plan as the one when you were working. But you probably spent less time on the phone now, or with the rise of video calling over Wifi, might not need so many minutes. See if you can downsize your phone plan and save some pounds every month! 

5. Shop Around

When you were working, you probably did your grocery shopping at one particular store – to minimize the time it takes. If you find you have more time on your hands you can spread out your shopping and purchase items from wherever is cheaper. You can head to different stores to take advantage of different deals.

If you need any assistance with shopping, don’t forget that our carers are ready to help! Simply get in touch today. 

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Additionally, for information and support please visit Dementia UK and the NHS website

Keep an eye out for these 6 early signs of dementia. If you see a loved one suffering with these, it might be best to book an appointment with their GP as soon as possible.

Memory loss

Sometimes, as we get older, we get forgetful. This is a natural part of the aging process. However, when memory loss starts to disrupt the day to day running of your life, it could be an early sign of dementia. Subsequently, be sure to keep an eye out for any of the following:

• forgetting information recently learnt
• repeated questioning
• telling the same story over again
• misplacing objects. 

Struggling with day to day tasks

Sometimes, one of the early signs of dementia is when day to day tasks become difficult. These are generally cognitive tasks, like following a recipe. If your loved one is finding tasks that they previously did on a day to day basis challenging, it’s best to visit the GP. 

Vision problems 

Sometimes, people experiencing the early onset of dementia may have issues with their vision. Common vision problems include:

• Lack of comprehension on visual images like infographics
• Difficulty judging shades of colour or contrasting colours
• Difficulty with depth perception or distance. 

Writing and Communicating difficulty

Memory-affecting conditions can make it difficult to recall common words and phrases. Therefore, issues with vocabulary can be a sign of early dementia. Forgetting a common word or using the incorrect word to describe something should be flagged to a GP. 

Organisational difficulties 

One of the early signs of dementia is organisational difficulties. Losing track of the day, forgetting appointments, struggling to organise a diary or calendar – these are all possible early symptoms and should be communicated to a medical professional. 

Mood shifting 

Sometimes, someone living with dementia may demonstrate unusual shifts in mood. Therefore, dementia sufferers may be depressed, anxious, fearful or suspicious. If you notice any unusual behaviours, alert a medical professional. People with dementia are also often very confused. As a result, they sometimes forget where they are or how they got there. Consequently, this can be a frightening sensation. Remember to stay patient, talk to your loved one and try to reassure them. 

Should your loved one be struggling with day to day activities, our empathetic carers are experienced in dementia care and are available to assist. Simply get in touch with our friendly team today to discuss the individual needs. However, should you or your loved one be struggling with any of the above, we’d always recommend you discuss the issues with your GP.

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1. Try to maintain a healthy weight

We know it’s easier said than done, but maintaining a healthy weight is one of the best ways to relieve joint pain! That’s because, by being a healthy weight, you will remove any excess strain on your joints, caused by carrying extra pounds. Our hips, knees and ankles especially struggle if we’re heavier than our frame should be, as the weight combined with gravity puts extra force on the lower half of your body, especially when walking or standing up from a sitting position. 

If you aren’t sure if you’re a healthy weight or not, a rough rule of thumb is the NHS BMI calculator. Generally speaking a BMI of 18-5 to 24.9 is considered healthy.

The best way to maintain a healthy weight is to eat healthily. Should you need help with this, our empathetic carers would be delighted to assist you with shopping and meal prep. 

2. Diet

A healthy diet can help you maintain a healthy weight, and a healthy weight will put less pressure on your joins. However, there’s also some suggestion that certain foods help with joint pain. Some studies suggest that the ‘Mediterranean diet’ can help reduce joint pain.

This consists of:

• High amount low-glycemic fruits and vegetables
• High amount of unsaturated fats (e.g. olive oil)
• Moderate amount of fish
• Low amount of red meat / dairy

To try to ease joint pain at home, why not try some meals of fish and vegetables, with a fruit salad to follow? 

3. Topical assistance

Some people find ice or heat helpful in easing joint pain. Invest in some ice packs, heat packs (that you can put into the microwave) and some on-the-go alternatives like Deep Heat and Deep Freeze gels.

Many people also find topical ibuprofen gels help reduce joint pain, but be sure to talk to a pharmacist or medical professional before using.

4. Correct footwear

Wearing the wrong shoes can have a disastrous knock-on effect with your joints. If your shoes are ill-fitting, unsupportive or un-cushioned, you can shock up your legs and into your knees and hips, causing more joint pain. This in turn can lead you to overcompensate with your back, resulting in back pain!

That’s why it’s so important to wear comfortable shoes at all times to ease joint pain at home and on the move. Invest in a pair of trainers with memory foam soles to reduce impact and favour brands like Moshulu for more formal shoes. They implement shock-resistant cork in most of their sandals and boots, allowing you to look fabulous, but still stay comfortable. 

5. Give your body adequate rest

We don’t just mean sleep! Make sure you give your body adequate rest in comfortable and joint-supportive ways. One of the best ways to ease joint pain at home is to invest in a supportive, comfortable mattress, and ensure that all your furniture provides adequate support.

If you can, try to take baths when you’re suffering from joint pain, as this will help ease your muscles, and relax you too!

6. Massage

Massage can increase blood flow and help reduce inflammation. If you’re able to attend regular massages, this can assist with reduction of joint pain. Even if you’re not able to attend a massage elsewhere you can ease joint pain at home by investing in a massage machine, or by massaging yourself.

If your joint pain is severe, make sure you contact your GP to discuss other options.

Should your joint pain make certain at-home tasks difficult, speak to Carers2u. We provide empathetic carers to assist with domestic chores, walks, physiotherapy and much more. Simply get in touch today!

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What is sepsis?

Sepsis is an emergency condition that needs immediate medical treatment. 

Sepsis Research defines sepsis as a condition where ‘your body’s response to an infection spirals rapidly out of control, injuring its own tissues and organs. Even with modern intensive medical care, sepsis can quickly lead to shock, multiple organ failure and death.’

Sepsis often lies undetected at first, as your body will be using its energy fighting the initial infection. 

Is sepsis more dangerous to older people?

Sepsis can affect people of any age, but Sepsis Alliance has found there is much more risk of hospitalization in older adults: ‘Adults age 65 years and older are 13 times more likely to be hospitalized with sepsis than adults younger than 65 and 63% of older adults 60 years and older are admitted to the ICU present with sepsis upon admission.’ 

As such, it’s very important to be on the lookout for signs and symptoms of sepsis when you are visiting a loved one at home or in care. As sepsis is a reaction to a pre-existing infection, it is especially prevalent in older adults who have suffered from pneumonia, urinary tract infections or influenza. 

How serious is sepsis?

Sepsis Research estimates that five people in the UK die every hour from sepsis, so the problem is very serious. In the UK, there are around 50,000 deaths annually from sepsis – to put that into perspective that’s more deaths than breast and bowel cancer combined. 

What are the symptoms of sepsis?

The NHS website lists the following as symptoms of sepsis:

• Pale, blotchy or blue skin / lips / tongue
• Rash that doesn’t fade when a glass is rolled over it
• Difficulty breathing
• Confusion / slurred speech
• In children- a weak, unusual, high pitched cry or being difficult to wake /  sleepier than normal

It is important to note that, should you or someone else experience any of the above symptoms, the NHS advises you to call 999 immediately. The website also notes there can be many symptoms of sepsis, and it is very hard to spot. Call 111 if you or someone else is suffering from any of the following:

• You / they feel very unwell
• You / they haven’t urinated all day
• You / they are vomiting and cannot keep any food or milk down
• You / they have redness, pain or swelling around a wound
• You/ they have a very high or low temperate / are shivering / are shaking
• You / they have rapid breathing or a rapid heart rate

If you or someone else is not suffering any of the above symptoms but still feels unwell, call 111.

For more information on Sepsis this Sepsis Awareness Month take a look at:

Symptoms of sepsis – NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Sepsis Charity UK | Sepsis Research

Aging – Sepsis Alliance

At Carers2u we offer in house care services. Our empathetic and experienced carers can assist with a wide range of one-to-one care needs, including personal hygiene, domestic chores, assistance with shopping etc. If you or a loved one needs a bit of extra help while recovering from illness or infection our at home services might just be what you’re looking for. Contact us today to find out more.

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Bird feeders

Create your own DIY birdfeeders, hang them by your window, on your balcony or in the garden, and watch the birds come! It’s all too easy to get lost within the 4 walls of your home, regardless of age. Interacting with nature soothes our souls and keeps us connected to the world around us. Follow these simple steps to create your own bird feeder.

1. Take an old toilet roll (that has used up all its paper)
2. Insert two small holes about 4 inches apart – on the same line
3. Roll the toilet roll in peanut butter
4. Then roll in birdseed
5. Insert a string into the two holes and use to hang
6. Watch as the birds come to your window! 

Artistry Kits

Nowadays it’s ever so easy to create something beautiful if, like me, you sadly aren’t going to win a Turner prize any time soon! You can choose from a wide range of activity kits, but here’s some of our favourites.

• Colour by numbers – whether it’s colouring, watercolours or oil paints, create beautiful, wall-worthy pictures!
• Engraving – engraving kits are great fun. Simply scratch off the upper layer, following a pattern, to reveal beautiful engraving. Ideal for creating postcards to send to loved ones.
• Cross stitch kits – follow the stitch pattern and choose from a variety of difficulty levels, to create beautiful embroidery.
• Diamond painting – a relatively new phenomenon, diamond painting follows a paint by numbers structure; however, instead of paints, you use small gems. Each kit comes with a special tool to help you stick the gems to the correct place: fiddly, but worth it!
• Silk painting – these simple kits are fantastic for creating cards, pictures and bookmarks alike! Check out the fantastic range of templates available at Silkcraft. The silk allows you to make fantastic tie-dye creations, and the ‘gutta’ edges along the designs stop over-spill. It’s the perfect painting kit – maximum results for minimal effort!

Scrapbooking

Scrapbooking is gaining popularity with younger people, as well as remaining a firm favourite with older crafters. Not only is it simple, fun and active, it helps people remember special events and outings in their life. Consider using postcards, photos, menus, tickets – anything that will remind you of your event.

You can also get creative and upcycle old magazines to contribute to your scrapbooking efforts. Use images, recipes and stories to complement your memories.

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What is mindfulness?

The mental health charity Mind describes Mindfulness as ‘a technique you can learn which involves making a special effort to notice what’s happening in the present moment (in your mind, body and surroundings).’ Put simply, it is the act of consciously choosing to be mindful in your thoughts and actions. 

How can mindfulness help?

We notice that many older people suffer from bouts of anxiety, worry or depression. Mindfulness can, with some people, subdue racing thoughts and allow for a greater sense of calm and peace. Mindfulness can also help to keep the mind focussed and active; a valuable skill as one gets older. Mindfulness is an activity we can do at any age, and does not require great mobility, stamina or fitness. 

The follow techniques have been successfully used to combat stress, anxiety, worry and depression in some individuals. However, every person is different so it’s important you find what works best for you. 

Mindfulness Technique 1 : Noticing

The first of our top 3 mindfulness techniques, this simple skill will help to refocus your mind. When our thoughts are racing and we are worrying, taking time out to actively notice can help calm ourselves. A noticing technique that we’ve found useful is to create a countdown with your senses:

• • List 5 things that you see. Focus on small details or minutiae – things you wouldn’t normally take the time to notice.
  • List 4 things that you can feel. Pay close attention to the sensations of different fabrics or furniture.
  • List 3 things that you can hear. Focus on sounds you’re trained to block out – a clock ticking or traffic outside.
  • List 2 things that you can smell. Can you smell your perfume or aftershave? Is there an air freshener working nearby?
  • List 1 thing that you can taste. What does your mouth taste like now? Pop in a candy or mint and notice the difference. 

By really focussing on the small details, we ground ourselves and allow our minds a chance to refocus and slow down.

Another useful noticing technique is picking a category and listing as many things you can think of. This is excellent for memory recall, too! For example, films with Doris Day – how many can you think of? 

Mindfulness Technique 2 : Body relaxation

When we think of body relaxation we may think of a bubble bath or even a nap! In this mindfulness technique we consciously relax different areas of our body to notice the difference. Make sure you try this technique when a family member or carer is present for the first time and take care not to over-exert any muscle group.

• Lie or sit in a comfortable relaxed position
• Beginning with your toes, scrunch up your toes and then relax them. Do this twice on both feet.
• Moving up your body, tense your calf gently (you must be gentle here or you can cause cramp) and then release
• Repeat this moving up to the thighs, buttocks, abdomen, hands, arms, neck and eventually screwing up your face, then letting it relax. 
• Pay attention to the different sensations between tension and relaxation.

Mindfulness Technique 3: Breathing 

We all breathe! But we rarely consciously breathe. Although now I’ve drawn attention to it we’re sure you’re much more aware! Consciously breathing can help calm racing minds and as such calm our body’s stress responses too.

• Sit in a comfortable position, hands resting on thighs.
• Take a deep breath – in for 5 seconds. 
• Hold for 5 seconds and release for 5 seconds.
• Repeat as needed.
• Trying to envisage a warm sun beam every time you breathe in.
• Should you get dizzy at any time, stop immediately and resume normal breathing. 

These are our top 3 mindfulness techniques – but it’s important to work out what’s best for you! Take a look at Mind’s list of mindfulness exercises for a some more ideas!

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