“From about the age of 55+, we lose around 1 percent of our muscle mass every year. It doesn’t sound like a lot, but our muscle keeps us warm.
“So it’s really important to wrap up warm when you go outside. In the home, eating at least one hot meal every day and drinking regular hot drinks helps, as does getting up and moving every now and again.”
According to the Met Office’s recommendations, homes should be heated to at least 18C. They also advise to stay in as much as possible.
“When the weather is really bad, it’s best to stay indoors,” the advice reads. “Why not make the time to call a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while, or take up a new hobby or learn a new skill.
“Make sure to wrap up warm when going outside; you could try wearing multiple thinner layers so you can take a layer off if you get too warm.
“With bad weather and darker nights, it’s not unusual to feel a bit blue in the winter months”, they added. “Age UK spoke to people aged 65 to 95 about what they do to keep their spirits up in the winter – there are lots of ideas and advice on their ‘Keep your spirits up’ page.”