Winter Warming!
Even though we are told the world is warming, I am pretty sure it will be cold in February! If you are like me, you will find being cold an unpleasant sensation and to be avoided as far as possible! It is good to keep warm, not just because it feels nice, but also because it is good for our health. Rupa Joshi, Deputy Medical Director for NHS England – South West and a GP, has written in her blog about the bad effects of cold weather on our health and how to minimise these effects. Click here for her blog
These effects are particularly significant for certain groups of people, for example, people aged 65 or older, and people with long-term conditions such as heart or kidney disease, COPD (including emphysema and chronic bronchitis), asthma or diabetes. She also advises that:- ‘being cold can also raise the risk of increased blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes’. We can also be more vulnerable to respiratory winter illnesses and increase the risk of trips and falls. So the more we can do to minimise these risks the better. She advocates various strategies.
Firstly, to get your COVID-19, flu and RSV vaccinations if you are eligible, You can book your vaccinations through the National Booking System, at your local community pharmacy or speak with your GP. Secondly, if you can, you should be aiming for the main room you use during the day, and at night, to be at least 18 C. If cost is a problem, contact our Village Agent, Lina Curiale-Hopkinson 07375 371549 and she will be able to advise you. Also Citizens Advice Somerset is there to help with these issues, among others. Call freephone 0808 278 2784 or visit www.citizensadvicesomerset.org.uk Thirdly, wearing several thinner layers will keep you warmer than one thicker layer and it is also very important to ensure you are eating enough and having hot drinks when you can.
Another important piece of advice is to be active everyday. This can help improve your mental health, reduce the risk of falling and can be beneficial for recovery if you do get ill. However she warns:- ‘Don’t do anything that doesn’t feel comfortable and trust your instincts about your own limits’. Going outside when it’s cold and wet for a bit of exercise does not appeal to some of us, so maybe some movement indoors is more appealing! https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/
The NHS has some guidance, or maybe try a bit of Joe Wicks, to entertain as well as keep fit! He has a plethora of YouTube videos to choose from, according to your capabilities and preferences. However I do recommend you go out for Warm in Wedmore, whatever the weather. These sessions are held most Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10.30am to 2pm in the Masonic Hall, running until 27th February. This is a great way to stay connected with people at this time of year, to lift our spirits and to talk with people we may not yet know! Remember this is for EVERYONE, all ages (no unaccompanied children), whether you are living alone, or not living alone – EVERYONE! There are no qualifying criteria at all! And if you need transport or company, contact Good Neighbours on 01934 806299. They may be able to help.
Support for people with dementia and their carers in Wedmore
Carer’s Group
Do you care for or support a person living with dementia? Then this friendly informative group is for you! Come along on the first Friday of the month to The Swan Hotel, Wedmore between 10am and 12md, next meeting on 7th February 2025. If you want to find out more about the Memories Workshops and Carers’ Group, phone HeadsUp on 01749 670667 or email wedmorecarers@yahoo.com You can also see their latest Newsletter by going to www.whawb.co.uk If you need help with funding, just ask, help may be available.
Cathy Butterworth
Wedmore Health & Wellbeing Project
01934 806266