Winter blues: How to stay warm and healthy this season

Research released today has claimed that illnesses related to living in cold homes costs the NHS a staggering £1.36bn every year.

Age UK, who compiled the statistics, have also issued guidance to the public on how to keep their houses warm and stay healthy this winter.

Although much of their advice - wrapping up in layers and keeping the heating on - is common sense, there are also a number of tips which many homeowners will not have thought of.

Yahoo! News UK have provided our own guide, using information from Age UK, other charities and energy providers, to make sure you don't get caught out by the cold snap.


KEEPING YOUR HOME WARM

- Age UK say the recommended temperature for your main living room is 21C (70F). The rest of your house should be heated to at least 18C (64F).

- If you feel cold, homeowners should turn the heating up regardless of what the thermometer reads.

- If it's very cold, you should set the timer to switch the heating on earlier, rather than turning up the thermostat to warm the house quickly.

- British Gas say you should keep your radiators clear; don't obstruct them with furniture as it will absorb a lot of the heat.

- The energy provider also suggest that in properties with high ceiling, placing a shelf just above the radiator will help deflect heat into the centre of the room.

- They also recommend the use of draft excluders around doors and windows, as well as thermal or heavy curtains during the winter, which should be closed by dusk.

- Homeowners should have their heating system serviced and chimney swept, and if they have a wood-burning, coal or gas heater, make sure there is adequate ventilation.


KEEPING YOURSELF WARM

- Several thin layers of clothing will keep you warmer than one thick layer, as the layers trap warm air.

- Clothes made from wool, cotton and fleecy synthetic fibres are a good choice. Start with thermal underwear, warm tights or socks.

- The Government's advice on keeping warm states that you wear shoes with a good grip if you need to go outside. If possible, stay inside during a cold period if you have heart or respiratory problems.

- Though your own care is obviously crucial, be sure to check on older neighbours or relatives to make sure they're safe and well. Make sure they're warm enough, especially at night, and have stocks of food and medicines so they don't need to go out during very cold weather.

- Eating well is naturally of huge importance. Hot meals and drinks help to keep you warm, so eat at least one hot meal each day and have hot drinks during the day.

Include a good range of foods in your diet and aim for five portions of fruit and vegetables each day, so that you’re getting plenty of nutrients and vitamins. Frozen vegetables are as good as fresh.

- Age UK advise homeowners to make sure you claim all the financial support you can to help with heating bills.
- If you are sitting down, a shawl or blanket will provide a lot of warmth. Try to keep your feet up, as the air is cooler at ground level.

- Wear warm clothes in bed. When very cold, wear thermal underwear, bed socks and even a hat – a lot of heat is lost through your head!

Keep simple cold, flu and sore throat remedies around the house, and follow up your GP's invitation to have a flu jab.

- Keep basic food items in the cupboard or freezer in case it’s too cold to go shopping.

- Try to keep your spirits up; try to keep to your usual routine and if you can’t visit friends or family, make sure that you phone them regularly for a chat. Doing something you enjoy every day can really help.