Right at Home Mid Cheshire embrace "Elf Day" in support of Alzheimer's Society

On 2^nd December the team at Right at Home Mid Cheshire dressed up as elves to raise money and awareness for the Alzheimer’s society.

Thank you to everyone who dressed up, baked festive treats & for having a day of fun and games! Amazing work Team Elf, your support is amazing, we raised £115.00.

Whether you are a family member, a friend or are living with dementia or memory problems yourself the winter months can be daunting. The weather is getting colder and it is that time of the year when temperatures can drop really quickly. People with dementia, especially older people, can really feel the chill, so it’s important to stay warm.

Being cold for any length of time is a serious health risk - particularly for older people and those who are inactive and have poor circulation.

A drop in body temperature can cause hypothermia, which can result in loss of consciousness and, in extreme circumstances, death. The person you are caring for may feel the cold far more than you do, but they may not realise it or may be unable to tell you.

We’ve got more information here:

• Dress warm: Layers of clothing, ideally with natural fibres such as cotton and wool, are the best way of staying warm. And don’t forget hats, scarves and gloves for going out, or even inside, along with snuggly socks and blankets.
• Keep the room warm: Try to make sure that any rooms that are occupied during the day are kept warm. Draught-proofing and roof insulation will help.
• Make the most of natural daylight: Decreased sunlight can cause someone with dementia to feel increased anxiety, confusion, and even depression. Get outside when you can, even just sitting in the garden, and keep the curtains open in the day.
• Stick to a routine: A big change in routine can cause someone with dementia to become confused or agitated. If you do have to make changes in winter – for example, changing nap times or daily walks due to limited daylight – try to do it gradually.
• Be careful in ice and snow: Perception issues can make it difficult for someone with dementia to see icy patches on a pavement or understand that snow can make a surface extra slippery.
• Eat and drink: Keeping warm uses up a lot of energy, and a warm house can increase the risk of dehydration, so eating and drinking is extra important when it’s cold. Snacking throughout the day can help keep energy levels up, and hot drinks can help you warm up.
• Stay active: Keeping active helps blood circulation and helps you stay warm. Try to move around at least once an hour. Getting out for a walk is ideal, but just moving in a chair, waving your arms, standing up and sitting down, or even wiggling your toes will help.

We’ve got more information here: https://bit.ly/3hccu8S.