Older people are being urged to stay home in this weather (Image: Getty)
A ‘stay inside’ warning has been issued to older people this week after temperatures plunged as low as -16C in some parts of the UK.
And the big freeze is likely to continue into the weekend, with parts of the UK failing to even reach 0C in the daytime as the mercury stays frozen on the minus side of the scale. According to the it won’t begin to get slightly warmer until Monday.
Now, mobility experts are warning that some people should avoid going outside at all when temperatures are dropping this low.
Senior care experts at are warning older Brits to take precautions when going outside this week in the snow as temperatures are to reach -16C.
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A spokesman said: “According to figures, more than 2,500 people are admitted to the hospital in England after falling on snow or ice, with people aged between 70 to 74 most at risk of injury.
“On average, falls in those aged 65 or above account for over 4 million bed days per year, at an estimated cost of £2 billion.”
It means those born between 1951 and 1955 are particularly at risk when going outside in this weather, according to ’ figures.
added: “It is best to avoid walking outside when the temperature falls to -10C or below.
“Extremely cold conditions put extra stress on your lungs, increasing the likelihood of coughing, wheezing, or chest tightness.
“This is especially important for older Brits who are more likely to have a heart condition, as the cold makes it more challenging for the heart to maintain proper circulation. Additionally, heart failure is a significant factor in hypothermia-related fatalities.”
For anyone who is thinking of risking it, the company issued key points to follow to try to stay safe.
They said: “Older Brits should wear footwear with good traction and non-slip soles and stay indoors until roads are safe. If you have to venture outside, using a mobility aid equipped with pneumatic tyres with shock absorption is best to move across uneven terrain smoothly. “Once inside, shoes should be removed promptly to prevent any melting snow and ice from making your floors slippery.
“Dress warmly: frostbite and hypothermia pose serious risks when your body temperature drops too low, especially for older adults. When stepping outside, seniors should wear multiple layers including socks, hats, gloves and scarves to stay warm. In freezing temperatures, make sure all exposed skin is covered. If an elderly person’s body temperature dips below 35C, seek medical attention.
“Take smaller steps: “To stay steady on icy surfaces, take smaller, measured steps to lower the risk of slipping. Moving slowly and carefully allows you to have better control and balance. Keep your hands free rather than in your pockets, which can help you catch yourself if you stumble.”
Senior care experts at Mobility Solutions Direct are warning older Brits to take precautions when going outside this week in the snow as temperatures are to reach -16C.
A spokesman said: “According to NHS figures, more than 2,500 people are admitted to the hospital in England after falling on snow or ice, with people aged between 70 to 74 most at risk of injury.
“On average, falls in those aged 65 or above account for over 4 million bed days per year, at an estimated cost of £2 billion.”
It means those born between 1951 and 1955 are particularly at risk when going outside in this weather, according to NHS’ figures.
Mobility Solutions Direct added: “It is best to avoid walking outside when the temperature falls to -10C or below.
“Extremely cold conditions put extra stress on your lungs, increasing the likelihood of coughing, wheezing, or chest tightness.
“This is especially important for older Brits who are more likely to have a heart condition, as the cold makes it more challenging for the heart to maintain proper circulation. Additionally, heart failure is a significant factor in hypothermia-related fatalities.”
For anyone who is thinking of risking it, the company issued key points to follow to try to stay safe.
They said: “Older Brits should wear footwear with good traction and non-slip soles and stay indoors until roads are safe. If you have to venture outside, using a mobility aid equipped with pneumatic tyres with shock absorption is best to move across uneven terrain smoothly. “Once inside, shoes should be removed promptly to prevent any melting snow and ice from making your floors slippery.
“Dress warmly: frostbite and hypothermia pose serious risks when your body temperature drops too low, especially for older adults. When stepping outside, seniors should wear multiple layers including socks, hats, gloves and scarves to stay warm. In freezing temperatures, make sure all exposed skin is covered. If an elderly person’s body temperature dips below 35C, seek medical attention.
“Take smaller steps: “To stay steady on icy surfaces, take smaller, measured steps to lower the risk of slipping. Moving slowly and carefully allows you to have better control and balance. Keep your hands free rather than in your pockets, which can help you catch yourself if you stumble.”