Welcome to our Quarterly Newsletter!
Welcome to the December edition of our quarterly newsletter. Here’s what's happening this month at Bluebird Care Luton 🎄
Staying safe in the winter ❄️
As the days get colder, it’s important to take extra precautions to stay safe and healthy. The colder months bring a range of challenges, especially for the elderly and those with mobility issues. Here are some simple, yet effective tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe this winter.
Icy weather and frosty mornings often cause slippery pavements and driveways, increasing the risk of falls. To stay safe:
Clear pathways when necessary - be sure to keep paths and entrances free from snow and ice. Use grit or salt to prevent icy build-up.
Wear non-slip footwear - wear shoes or boots with rubber soles for extra grip.
Use handrails and walking aids - make sure stairs and walkways are well-lit and that handrails are secure. Walking aids such as a walker can also help with balance on icy surfaces.
Hypothermia is a serious concern during the winter, especially for those who are less mobile or have chronic health conditions. Here’s how to stay warm and safe:
Layer your clothing - dress in several layers to trap heat. Don’t forget to wear a warm hat, gloves and thick socks - especially when going outside. When inside, cosy blankets and dressing gowns can help maintain warmth.
Keep your home warm - have heating systems checked regularly to make sure they’re working safely.
Avoiding Colds and Flu 🌡️
Winter is a common type for colds, coughs and flu. Here are some simple steps you can take to protect yourself and those around you:
Keep hands clean:
Wash your hands regularly.
Carry hand sanitiser when you’re out and about.
Avoid touching your face when possible.
Reduce the spread of germs:
Use tissues when coughing and sneezing, then throw them away immediately.
Keep surfaces like door handles, phones and light switches clean.
Let fresh air into your home to reduce germs inside.
Look after your immune system:
Eat balanced meals and stay hydrated.
Rest when you need to and try to get regular sleep.
Keep warm
Flu Jab and COVID Booster Reminder 💉
Getting vaccinated is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself during the winter:
Flu Jab - recommended for older adults, people with health conditions and carers. It can significantly reduce the risk of serious illness.
COVID Booster - helps maintain protection throughout the winter months, especially for those who are more vulnerable.
Vaccinations are usually available through GP surgeries, pharmacies or local vaccination clinics.
Stay Safe from Phone and Text Scams this Winter
Scammers often take advantage of the winter months, targeting people with fake phone calls, text messages and emails. Here’s how to stay safe and protect your personal information:
Common types of scams:
Phone calls claiming to be from your bank, saying there’s something wrong with your account.
Texts pretending to be delivery companies asking you to click a link to ‘rearrange’.
Messages claiming to be the NHS, asking for payment or personal details for vaccines.
Energy bill or cost-of-living scams, offering discounts if you provide personal information.
How to stay safe:
Never give out personal or banking details over the phone.
Don’t click on links in unexpected texts or emails.
Hang up if a caller pressures you or tells you to act immediately.
If you’re unsure:
Talk to a trusted friend, family member or your care team before responding to a call or message.
You can forward suspicious texts and calls to 7726 (free of charge) to report them.
Report scam calls or concerns to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.
Support & Friendship with The Silver Line
If you or someone you know is ever feeling lonely, isolated or just need a friendly conversation - The Silver Line is here to help day or night.
The Silver Line is a free confidential helpline for older people, offering friendship, conversation, advice and support.
Available 24/7, you can call them any time, day or night - even weekends and holidays.
They offer a listening ear and friendly conversation, help with information about local services, links to community groups and more.
Calls are completely free from mobiles and landlines.
How to contact:
Call 0800 470 8090
We’d Love to Hear From You!
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Stay Connected
Telephone: 01582 380 122
Email: luton@bluebirdcare.co.uk
Out of hours: 07851 130 841
