A CROSS Hills care home manager is urging older people living alone to be extra careful during wintry weather.
And she is encouraging relatives and neighbours to keep a particular watch on the elderly to ensure they're OK.
Sharon Mackie, from Anchor's Townend Close scheme, said: "We are urging the wider community to keep a close eye on elderly neighbours and their older relatives who may live alone and are more vulnerable in the cold weather.
"Older people should check room temperatures regularly. Daytime they should be set to a minimum of 21 degrees, and 18 degrees at night.
"We recommend older people have regular hot drinks and eat at least one hot meal a day if possible.
"Eating regularly helps to keep up energy levels during the winter. And a well-nourished body is going to be stronger and therefore more resilient against the cold.
"Also, wrap-up and wear several light layers of warm clothes. Wear footwear with a good grip if you need to go outside on cold days. Take extra care if you do go out."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here