Tips on how to stay warm during winter
•Wear several thin layers, rather than one thick layer of clothing.
•Remain active - don't stay sitting for long periods. Exercise daily, but avoid taking risks during wet or icy conditions.
•Eat well - have at least one hot nutritious meal a day and sip hot drinks regularly. Keep a flask of hot drink beside the bed in case you wake up cold.
•Insulate your home, making sure gaps around your windows and doors are sealed.
•Ask friends to visit regularly. They will be able to call for medical help if you are suffering from the effects of hypothermia, which include drowsiness, unsteady movement and a lack of awareness that your body is cold.
•Make sure you are claiming your entitlement to payments such as the fuel allowance, the living alone allowance and the family income supplement, as well as the free electricity and gas allowances, which cover the cost of standing charges and a certain number of energy units a year.
Source: Energy for Older People by Age Action Ireland/ESB Customer Supply