How Can We Help Elderly Loved Ones Stay Active and Warm This Winter?

Winter often brings unique challenges for older adults, from colder temperatures to shorter daylight hours. But how can we ensure they remain safe, warm, and engaged during these months? By focusing on creating a warm home environment, encouraging physical activity, and staying connected, families in Taunton and West Somerset can support their elderly loved ones through the colder season with comfort and care. This blog explores practical steps, local resources, and professional care options to make winter more manageable and enjoyable.

At Home Instead Taunton & West Somerset, we understand the importance of creating a safe, active, and supportive environment for older adults during the colder months. In this blog, we’ll explore practical ways to protect your loved ones from winter’s challenges, from staying warm at home to engaging in meaningful activities and utilising local resources. Whether it’s addressing health concerns, enhancing home safety, or fostering social connections, these tips are designed to help your family navigate winter with confidence and care.

A warm home is vital for preventing health issues such as respiratory illnesses and heart complications. Even small changes can make a significant difference in creating a safe and cosy environment:

• Set the thermostat to at least 18°C in living areas.
• Use draught excluders to keep heat from escaping through doors and windows.
• Keep bedroom windows closed at night to retain warmth.
• Encourage layering with thermal undergarments, jumpers, and warm socks.
• Prepare hot meals and drinks regularly.

For families concerned about rising energy costs, government schemes like the Winter Fuel Payment and Cold Weather Payment can provide financial relief. Visit the GOV.UK website to check eligibility.

Staying active is crucial for physical health and mental well-being during winter. Even light exercises can improve mobility, circulation, and mood.

Ideas for Staying Active Indoors:

• Aim for 150 minutes of activity per week, such as walking indoors or gentle stretching.
• Try chair-based exercises or yoga.
• Join local classes for older adults through organisations like Age UK Somerset or the Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership.

To find activities in Taunton, visit Somerset Moves or call 01823 653990 for advice.

Shorter days and colder weather provide opportunities to focus on meaningful connections and uplifting activities that brighten the winter season:

• Schedule regular visits or phone calls.
• Encourage hobbies such as knitting, reading, or baking.
• Suggest light physical activities, which can release mood-lifting endorphins.

For signs of anxiety or depression, NHS Talking Therapies offers free mental health services. In urgent situations, call NHS 111 and select Option 2 for 24/7 support.

Local events such as Pancake Day celebrations provide an excellent opportunity to bring people together. Hosting or attending similar gatherings this winter can help combat loneliness while creating cherished memories.

Last year, a Pancake Day event at a Taunton church brought the community together with food, laughter, and storytelling. Why not organise or attend something similar this year?

Our What’s on Where(WOW) guide is a handy tool for discovering activities and events in and around Taunton and Wellington.

Supporting elderly loved ones during winter can sometimes feel overwhelming. Professional care services provide tailored solutions to help families:

Types of Support Available:

• Visiting Care: Help with daily tasks like meal preparation.
• Live-In Care: Round-the-clock assistance for continuous support.
• Overnight Care: Comfort and reassurance during the night.
• Dementia Care: Specialist services designed to meet unique needs.

Home Instead Taunton & West Somerset offers personalised care plans to suit each individual, ensuring safety and comfort throughout the season.