How Can You Help Older Adults Stay Active and Warm This Winter?
Help older adults stay warm, active, and connected this winter with local support and care services.
At Home Instead Weston-super-Mare, Clevedon & Burnham on Sea, we specialise in delivering thoughtful solutions that enhance the health, warmth, and engagement of older adults during the colder months.
With winter’s chill, keeping older adults warm and active is vital for their health and well-being. Weston-super-Mare offers numerous resources and community initiatives to help families support their loved ones throughout the season.
Why Staying Warm and Active Matters
Cold weather can increase the risk of health problems such as hypothermia, falls, and even loneliness. Maintaining a warm and active lifestyle is key to ensuring physical and mental well-being for older adults. Fortunately, Weston-super-Mare offers a range of resources and initiatives to help families support their loved ones.
Local Initiatives to Keep Warm
Weston-super-Mare is home to several community-based solutions designed to help residents stay warm and connected:
- Community Living Rooms: Warm spaces in libraries, sports centres, and places of worship offer a welcoming environment to relax, enjoy a hot drink, and engage with others.
- Financial Assistance: Programmes like the Priority Services Register and Winter Fuel Payment provide help with heating costs.
- Free Resources: The Wellness Service provided by Access Your Care is running a ‘Blankets and Beanies’ initiative funded by North Somerset Council. They distribute items such as blankets and hats for extra comfort to vulnerable residents during chilly months.
Staying Active During Winter
Even in colder weather, there are plenty of ways to stay active and engaged. Physical movement, however gentle, is essential for maintaining circulation, mobility, and overall health.
Local Events to Stay Engaged
One way to encourage activity is by attending community events. For example, the Winter Health Promotion Day which was last held in October 2023 in The Sovereign Shopping Centre. Featuring information and advice on:
- Stop smoking support.
- Diet and fitness advice.
- Mental health services, including NHS talking therapies.
- Flu and COVID-19 vaccinations.
These free sessions provide not only health resources but also opportunities to connect with others.
Safe Outdoor Tips
When venturing outdoors in winter, preparation is key:
- Wear Non-Slip Footwear: Reduce the risk of falls on icy paths.
- Layer Up: Thermal clothing, jumpers, and waterproof outerwear help combat the cold.
- Keep Moving: Short walks can maintain body warmth and boost circulation.
If outdoor activity isn’t feasible, encourage light indoor exercises like stretching or chair-based workouts to stay limber.
Creating a Cosy Home Environment
Maintaining a warm home is vital for health during the winter months. Simple adjustments can make a big difference:
- Set the thermostat to a comfortable 20–21°C.
- Use draught excluders and close curtains in the evening to retain warmth.
- Consider electric blankets or hot water bottles, but avoid using both simultaneously to prevent overheating.
The Role of Nutrition
A nutritious diet also plays a significant role in staying warm. Warm meals like soups and stews are comforting and energy-rich, while hot drinks help maintain hydration. Keeping a supply of frozen or tinned vegetables ensures quick access to healthy options.
Protecting Against Winter Illnesses
Colds, flu, and other illnesses can affect older adults more severely. Proactive measures can reduce risks:
- Vaccinations: Flu and pneumonia vaccines are readily available for those aged 65 and over.
- Medical Advice: At the first sign of illness, consult NHS 111 or a pharmacist.
- Hand Hygiene: Regular washing helps prevent the spread of germs.
Stocking up on essential medicines and non-perishable foods can also minimise trips outside during poor weather.
Combating Isolation
Staying socially connected during winter is essential for emotional well-being and can bring joy to older adults. Staying socially connected is essential for emotional well-being.
Local Support Services
In Weston-super-Mare, services such as the North Somerset Wellness and Social Care Telephone Service provide daily check-ins for older residents. This free service is available by calling 01275 874 861.
The Silver Line is also a very useful companionship phone line for older individuals. Calling free on 0800 470 8090 can put you in touch with someone to help relieve loneliness.
Community fridges, food banks, and events like Pancake Day gatherings offer opportunities to connect while enjoying shared activities. Celebrating traditions together is a great way to strengthen family bonds and bring joy.
How Home Instead Weston-super-Mare, Clevedon & Burnham on Sea Can Help
Caring for an elderly loved one can be especially demanding during the colder months. Professional respite care ensures your family member receives the support they need while you take time to recharge.
Types of Respite Care
- Visiting Care: Help with tasks like meal preparation and medication.
- Live-In Care: Continuous, tailored support.
- Overnight Care: Assistance for those who feel anxious or unsettled at night.
- Dementia Care: Specialist care that offers familiarity and comfort.
At Home Instead Weston-super-Mare, Clevedon & Burnham on Sea, we provide personalised care plans to meet your family’s unique needs.
Encouraging Indoor Activities
Engaging hobbies are an excellent way to keep older adults mentally and emotionally active during winter. Encourage activities such as:
- Reading books or magazines.
- Solving puzzles or playing games.
- Crafting or trying new recipes together.
For physical activity, light exercises like yoga or stretching can improve energy levels and mobility. Organisations like Better Health North Somerset provide accessible resources for incorporating movement into daily routines.
Preparing for a Safe and Warm Winter
Helping elderly loved ones navigate winter doesn’t have to be daunting. By tapping into local resources, staying proactive, and seeking professional support when needed, you can ensure their health and happiness during the colder months.
Would you like to learn more about our services at Home Instead Weston-super-Mare, Clevedon & Burnham on Sea? Contact us today to explore how we can assist your family. Together, we can make this winter a season of warmth and connection.
