Stay Safe, Warm, and Connected

Ensuring a safe home environment is essential year-round, but it becomes even more critical during the winter. With added hazards such as icy pathways, cold weather, and an increased risk of falls, Home Instead West Leicestershire provides practical solutions to keep homes warm, safe, and comfortable.

Managing Cold Weather and Staying Warm

• Maintaining Optimal Indoor Temperature: Seniors are more susceptible to the cold due to slower blood circulation and less body fat. Care Professionals can help regulate heat settings, check heating systems, and ensure homes are draft-free. We recommend keeping the thermostat at a consistent 18-21°C to maintain warmth without reaching a degree of heat that could cause discomfort.
• Dressing in Layers and Thermal Clothing: Our team advises on appropriate winter attire, such as warm clothes and thermal layers, including scarves, gloves, and socks. Layering clothing made of materials like wool or cotton is especially effective in trapping body heat and keeping warm. For those who need assistance, our Care Professionals can help clients select and dress in suitable outfits each day, ensuring they’re comfortable and prepared, whether staying in or heading out. They can also assist with trips to purchase additional winter clothing if needed, helping seniors stay cosy and confident during the colder months.
• Electric Blankets and Safe Heating Options: Electric blankets, when used safely, can be a great way to stay warm. Our Care Professionals assist in setting up and monitoring their safe use. Additionally, we provide guidance on safe, portable heaters for specific areas of the home, adjusting heat settings as necessary.

Preventing Falls and Slips

Slips and falls are common during winter due to slippery outdoor paths, wet surfaces, and changes in floor types indoors. Home Instead Care Professionals can help reduce these risks.

• Non-Slip Mats and Rugs: We assist in placing non-slip mats in high-risk areas, especially bathrooms, kitchens, and entryways. Care Professionals can also advise on removing or securing rugs to prevent tripping, which can be especially dangerous for disabled people.
• Lighting and Accessibility: Poor lighting can make it difficult for seniors to navigate safely. We encourage the use of bright, energy-efficient bulbs, particularly in hallways, staircases, and bathrooms. If you’re unable to assist your loved one with changing bulbs, our Care Professionals can help make these adjustments.
• Safe Mobility Aids: For those using mobility aids, we ensure they are in good condition, properly fitted, and easily accessible. Our Care Professionals are trained to support seniors as they move around the house, making it safer to navigate both indoors and outdoors, especially during the winter months when conditions can be more challenging.

To further enhance safety, installing handrails in key areas such as stairs, porches, and bathrooms can provide additional stability. Our Care Professionals can assist with the installation of these safety features, either directly or by coordinating with trusted local professionals. These adjustments, combined with regular checks on mobility aids, ensure seniors can move confidently and securely in their homes.

Dementia care requires particular attention during the colder months, as changes in daylight and temperature can increase confusion, agitation, and other symptoms. Home Instead West Leicestershire offers dementia-focused care designed to meet the unique needs of those living with this condition.

Managing Seasonal Changes and Sundowning

Sundowning, a common symptom where confusion and agitation intensify in the late afternoon, can become more pronounced in winter due to reduced daylight.

• Consistent Routines: Our Care Professionals work to maintain a consistent routine, helping to reduce confusion. From meal times to sleep schedules, keeping consistency provides a sense of security for dementia clients.
• Light Therapy and Indoor Lighting: Increasing indoor lighting can help counteract the effects of shorter days. We recommend keeping lights on during the evening and possibly introducing light therapy lamps to improve mood and reduce sundowning symptoms.

Dementia-Friendly Activities for Mental Stimulation

Engagement and mental stimulation are essential for those with dementia, helping reduce feelings of isolation and providing a sense of purpose. Home Instead Care Professionals organise dementia-friendly activities tailored to each individual’s interests and abilities.

• Crafts, Puzzles, and Games: Simple crafts, jigsaw puzzles, and card games are enjoyable activities that can also be therapeutic. Our team brings an array of stimulating options to each client, engaging them in meaningful, calming activities.
• Music and Reminiscence Therapy: Music can often unlock memories and improve mood in those with dementia. Care Professionals create playlists of favourite tunes and encourage singing or listening sessions, which bring moments of joy and connection.
• Physical Movement: Light exercises, like stretching or chair yoga, help maintain flexibility and improve circulation. Care Professionals often guide clients through gentle movements tailored to their mobility and fitness level.

Home Instead West Leicestershire is proud to be part of the local community, providing services that make a difference in the lives of seniors and their families. Here’s why so many families trust us with their loved one’s care:

• Local, Compassionate Care: Our Care Professionals live in West Leicestershire and understand the local resources, events, and support systems. They go beyond basic care, often accompanying clients to community activities or liaising with local charities such as the Salvation Army and Leicestershire County Council, ensuring a well-rounded approach to support.
• Personalised Care Plans: Each care plan is uniquely tailored to fit individual needs, from personal care to companionship and memory support. Home Instead understands that each senior has unique needs, which we incorporate into our flexible and compassionate care plans.
• Experienced and Dedicated Team: Our Care Professionals are highly trained in senior care, fall prevention, dementia support, and more. With a deep commitment to supporting the health, happiness, and dignity of each client, they bring warmth and dedication to each visit.