What you can do 

As we age, our immune system becomes weaker and less able to fight off viruses. We lose muscle mass which helps to keep us warm and keep us moving about. And the cold makes health conditions harder to manage, or even effect our hearts and circulation.

The good news is there are lots of things we can do to help keep well in winter.

Keep moving

Try not to sit still for more than one hour at a time. You might not think it, but even a little bit of activity can help you to keep strength and mobility.

We have lots of simple home-based exercises you can add to your daily routine. 

If you're not sure where to start, or find it difficult to move more because of a long-term condition, have a look at our being active pages for advice and tips. 

We've looked into the best ways to help people get active as they get older. Take a look at what we found.

Eat well

Spending more time indoors more and doing less of the things we enjoy means it can be difficult to keep up the motivation to prepare meals. Try to keep a bit of a routine and eat what you can.

If you've recently lost weight without meaning to or have a smaller appetite than usual, find out why this might be and what you can do to help. The most important thing is to eat, even if the only thing you fancy is a slice of cake, something is always better than nothing.

Get your free flu jab – even if you're fighting fit

Everyone aged 65 and over, and anyone who cares for a friend or family member, is entitled to a free flu jab from the doctor or pharmacist.

Make sure your home is warm enough

Try to heat your home to a steady and comfortable temperature throughout the day. It's also a good idea to keep your bedroom window closed at night when the weather is coldest and close the curtains at dusk to keep the heat in.

Wash your hands regularly

This is important now more than ever. It's simple but effective – washing your hands helps stop germs spreading and can help you stay well.

Wrap up well and stay stocked up

Layering's the best way to keep warm in winter. If you're heading out, don’t forget the temperature can drop drastically as the sun goes down so take woollies out with you, even if you don’t need them immediately. It could be a good idea to stock up on cold and sore throat remedies. Your pharmacist can give you advice if you're feeling under the weather about what might help.

The cold puts more pressure on our hearts and circulatory systems

The cold can increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke, as well as hyperthermia. If you suspect yourself, or another, is experience any of these, call 999 immediately, or 112 from a mobile 

Remember, for a Stroke, think FAST

F- is the face drooping on one side?

A – can the person raise both arms and keep them there?

S – is speech slurred?

T – time to call 999 if you spot any one of these signs