As energy costs rise and changes to winter fuel payments take effect, many carents are concerned about how to keep their elderly parents’ homes warm without incurring high expenses. Ensuring your elderly parent stays warm and safe during the winter months is essential for their health and wellbeing. Here are some practical heating tips for elderly parents to help you manage their home heating efficiently and reduce costs.
1. Improve Home Insulation to Keep Elderly Parents Warm at Home
Enhancing insulation can significantly reduce heat loss in your elderly parent’s home, making it warmer and more energy-efficient.
• Draught Proofing: Check for gaps around doors and windows. Using draught excluders or weatherstripping can help keep the cold air out and the warm air in, crucial for keeping elderly parents warm in winter.
• Loft and Wall Insulation: Ensure the loft and walls have adequate insulation. Proper insulation can prevent a substantial amount of heat from escaping through the roof and walls.
• Curtains and Blinds: Encourage the use of heavy or thermal-lined curtains. Closing them at dusk helps retain warmth. Consider fitting curtain liners if replacing curtains isn’t feasible.
2. Optimise Heating Systems for Energy Savings
Making small adjustments to how the heating is used can lead to significant energy savings for seniors.
• Programmable Thermostats: Installing a simple thermostat allows you to set heating schedules, ensuring the home is warm when needed without wasting energy.
• Bleed Radiators: Air trapped in radiators can reduce efficiency. Bleeding them can improve heat distribution, a simple step to reduce heating costs for seniors.
• Zone Heating: Focus on heating the rooms your parent uses most. Keep unused rooms at a lower temperature to save on energy.
3. Ensure Warm Clothing and Bedding
Helping your elderly parent stay warm doesn’t rely solely on heating the home.
• Warm Clothing: Encourage wearing layers, including thermal undergarments, jumpers, and warm socks. Slippers with good grip can keep feet warm and reduce the risk of slips.
• Bedding: Provide extra blankets or a higher-tog duvet. Flannel sheets can add warmth, helping to keep elderly warm at home during the night.
4. Utilise Natural Warmth
Maximising natural heat sources contributes to a warmer home.
• Sunlight: Open curtains during the day to let in sunlight, naturally warming rooms.
• Cooking Meals: The warmth from cooking can raise the temperature in the kitchen and nearby areas. Sharing a warm meal together also offers comfort.
5. Explore Winter Energy Assistance for the Elderly
There may be financial assistance available to help with energy costs.
• Winter Fuel Payments and Cold Weather Payments: Check if your parent is eligible for government support to help with heating bills.
• Grants and Schemes: Local councils and energy suppliers may offer grants or discounts for home insulation and heating improvements, providing energy-saving tips for seniors.
• Household support fund: You may be able to get help with essential costs from your local council. This is sometimes known as ‘the Household Support Fund’.
• Pension Credit: If your parent qualifies for Pension Credit, they may be eligible for additional benefits, including the winter fuel payment.
6. Maintain the Heating System
An efficient heating system can reduce energy consumption.
• Regular Servicing: Arrange for the boiler and heating system to be serviced annually to ensure they’re working efficiently and safely.
• Consider Upgrades: If the boiler is old, exploring options for a more energy-efficient model could result in long-term savings. Grants may be available to assist with this.
7. Provide Safe Heating Aids
Supplementary heating solutions offer targeted warmth.
• Electric Blankets: These can warm the bed before sleep, making bedtime more comfortable.
• Hot Water Bottles and Heat Pads: Simple and effective for providing warmth when sitting or resting.
• Portable Heaters: If certain areas are cold, a safe, portable heater can provide additional warmth. Ensure it has safety features and is used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Encourage Safe Physical Activity
Keeping active helps your parent stay warm and promotes wellbeing.
• Gentle Exercises: Simple activities like walking around the house or light stretching can boost circulation.
• Engage in Hobbies: Encourage activities that involve movement, such as light housework or crafts.
9. Connect with Community Resources
Local support can offer warmth and social interaction.
• Warm Spaces: Community centres, libraries, or churches may offer warm spaces during the day.
• Centres for Warmth: Cadent’s Centres for Warmth support people who are living in vulnerable situations keeping them warm, safe, and connected. Find one near you
• Community Groups: Participating in local groups provides social interaction and activities that keep them active and warm.
10. Monitor Energy Usage Together
Being mindful of energy consumption helps manage costs.
• Review Energy Bills: Regularly check energy bills for any unusual increases.
• Smart Meters: Installing a smart meter helps track usage and identify opportunities to save – they will also allow you manage the heating remotely
• Unplug Unused Devices: Ensure appliances and devices not in use are turned off to avoid unnecessary energy consumption.
By taking these steps, you can help your elderly parent stay warm and comfortable throughout the winter without undue financial strain. Every home is different, so consider which suggestions are most applicable to your parent’s situation.
If you need further advice, organisations like Age UK and local councils offer resources and guidance tailored to older adults. Remember, keeping warm is essential for your parent’s health, so don’t hesitate to seek support if needed.