Spread the Warmth
Help Age UK support older people in need this winter
At Age Co our mission is to help people make the most of later life. We not only offer a range of products and services with the over 50s in mind, but all our profits go back to supporting Age UK’s charitable work. This winter, we’re helping our colleagues at Age UK help older people stay safe and healthy during the colder months and make sure that no one struggles alone this winter.
What does winter mean to you?
Big coat? Woolly jumpers? Rubbish weather? Age UK asked the Great British public what comes to mind when they hear the word ‘winter’.
But while for many it conjures up images of chilly mornings and icy roads, for others like Margaret, Val and James, winter isn’t just an inconvenience, it’s truly distressing.
Here’s how you can get involved
Whether you want to help others or are looking for guidance for yourself and loved ones, let’s beat this winter together.
1. Take care of yourself
From keeping warm to managing energy bills Age UK’s expert advice can help you keep well through winter.
2. Look after others
Be part of your community and provide vital support to older residents
3. Support the appeal
Donate to Age UK’s winter fundraising appeal and keep vital services running.
4. Donate a coat
Give the warm winter clothes you no longer need to your local Age UK charity shop.
Winter wrapped up guide
This free guide from Age UK has lots of useful information to help you stay well through winter, from what support is available to keep your home warm to how to look after your health.
Services from Age UK
Information and advice
The Age UK advice line is a free confidential service offering expert information and advice on topics including money, health, housing and isolation. Our specialist benefits advisors can also help identify the financial support older people may be entitled to.
Friendship and Support
Age UK’s Telephone Friendship Service can help people over 60 stay connected this winter with a friendly, weekly chat. And the Silver Line Helpline is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to anyone who needs to talk.
Local Services
Local Age UKs offer a range of services such as day centres, handyperson services, benefits advice and exercise classes. Some offer specific winter services including emergency food parcels and warm space hubs.
Some of the challenges facing older people this winter
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Mental health
Many people find their mood is lower during winter. Loneliness and social isolation can also leave older people feeling cut off and forgotten, putting their mental and physical wellbeing at real risk.
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Cost of living
With the effects of the cost-of-living crisis continuing to bite, many older people will struggle to afford the basic necessities including decent warm food and adequate heating.
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Physical health
As our immune systems become less effective as we age, older people are more likely to becomes seriously unwell from common winter viruses like flu and coronavirus.
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Mobility
Over winter, fewer opportunities to get out and about can mean older people can spend more time indoors, alone. This can cause people to lose strength, fitness and balance, increasing the risk of falls.
Products and services from Age Co
Falls Risk Assessment
Understanding your risk of a fall and the causes of falls will help avoid unnecessary accidents at home or out-and-about. Use the free online tool to assess your indicative risk of falling and receive our falls prevention guide.
