Looking After Yourself And Others
How can you help someone you look after or care for?
There are lots of ways you can help others stay well, including elderly people and other dependents. If you look after someone:
Encourage them to get the healthcare they need. Their GP, local community pharmacy and NHS 111 will be there for them when they need help or advice. In an emergency dial 999. If eligible, ask them if they got their vaccinations. The vaccines will protect against serious illnesses. Their GP will be able to advise where and how to get it.
Encourage them to move around and keep active – invite them on a walk.
Can you help keep the entrance to their home safe? When it's wet outside, it's easier to slip and fall. Helping to keep paths clear and salting steps and slopes could make a big difference.
Ask if they have everything they need. Sometimes it is difficult to leave home for shopping or collecting medicines. If you’re able, help them to get the support they need.
For more tips, read our leaflet
When should you visit someone in a hospital or care home?
In order to prevent the spread of germs, it’s important to avoid visiting family and friends in hospital or care homes when you’re feeling unwell. People who are vulnerable to illnesses are more likely to catch any bugs going around therefore, it’s best to avoid visiting until you’re feeling better. Avoid visiting family and friends if you have a high temperature, cough, cold, diarrhoea, vomiting or any other infectious condition. Instead, you could arrange a phone call to catch up with your loved ones.
How can you look after yourself?
It’s important you continue to do all the simple things you enjoy and that make you feel good. Things like:
Keeping active - you could try walking, an online free exercise class or even a bit of housework.
Keeping hydrated
Keeping in touch – try and stay in regular contact with loved ones. If you need more support, try speaking to your GP or contacting NHS Talking Therapies.
For more tips, read our leaflet
