Having problems keeping warm? Freephone: Age Concern for advice on 0800 00 99 66

Keeping warm is an important part of your health and wellbeing. This applies all year round but it is absolutely vital during the winter months.

As the weather gets colder we are more likely to catch colds and flu - keeping warm is as crucial to staying well as living a healthy lifestyle. The tips below suggest ways that will help you stay warm in winter.

Keep warm, dress well

It is important to wrap up warm when you are both indoors and out. Several layers of thin clothing are more effective than one thick layer as the thin layers trap air between them and keep you warmer. Clothes made from natural fibres such as wool are usually warmer than man-made fibres. Make sure you wrap up when going outside - be sure to wear a scarf to help protect your neck and ears from draughts. And, although this is not always easy in this country, try to avoid getting wet. If,you are unlucky enough to get caught in the rain then change into dry clothes as soon as you get home.

Keep warm, eat well

Having regular hot meals and hot drinks will provide warmth and energy. It is important to try and eat a varied diet, including plenty of fruit and vegetables. Try to have at least one cooked meal a day, even if you don't feel like cooking.

Keep warm, keep moving

Any type of movement or activity - even just walking to the local shop or doing the hoovering - will get your circulation going and keep you warm. If you sit for long periods of time try standing up and moving around for a while. And If it is very cold and icy outside try and stay active indoors instead of going outside.

Keeping your home warm

It is important to not only heat your home but to ensure you are taking the right steps to keep the heat in. If you are concerned about heating your home then contact Age Concern FREE on 0800 00 99 66 (7am - 7pm, 7 days a week) for some helpful advice.