As the leaves begin to fall and the nights draw in, the colder months bring unique challenges – especially for older people living at home. Winter can be a time of joy and connection, but it can also increase risks to health and wellbeing, particularly for those who are vulnerable or living with long-term conditions. At Braeburn Care, we know how important it is for families to feel reassured that their loved ones are safe, warm, and supported.
This guide explores practical ways to prepare for winter wellbeing, with tips on heating, nutrition, flu vaccinations, and fall prevention – alongside how home care support can make all the difference.
Why Winter Wellbeing Matters for Elderly Loved Ones
Winter can be particularly hard on older adults. Colder temperatures increase the risk of hypothermia, respiratory illnesses, and falls, while shorter days and limited daylight hours can impact mood and lead to isolation. According to Age UK, thousands of older people are admitted to hospital each winter due to preventable causes such as slips, trips, or flu-related complications.
That’s why winter safety for elderly people should be a priority for families – not just to prevent health issues, but also to support confidence, independence, and peace of mind at home.
Staying Warm: Heating and Home Safety
Keeping warm is one of the most important steps in protecting health during the winter months. Even mild cold can exacerbate existing health conditions.
Tips for staying warm at home:
- Keep the main living area at 18–21°C and bedrooms at around 18°C.
- Ensure windows and doors are draught-proofed.
- Use layers of light clothing, which are more effective than one thick layer.
- Encourage the use of hot water bottles or electric blankets (used safely).
- Ensure chimneys, heaters, and boilers are serviced regularly.
How Braeburn Care can help:
Our carers can check heating is on and working properly, ensure customers have enough warm clothing and blankets, and remind them to keep rooms at safe temperatures. Small checks during visits provide reassurance that older people remain warm and comfortable.
Nutrition and Hydration: Eating Well in Winter
It’s easy for appetite to decrease when the weather is cold, but nutrition is vital to keep energy levels up and immune systems strong.
Practical tips for winter nutrition:
- Encourage hearty meals such as soups, stews, and casseroles – they’re warming, nutritious, and often easier to digest. For further ideas on meal preparation ideas, read our previous blog: Winter Warmers at Home
- Ensure a balance of protein, vegetables, and whole grains in meals.
- Keep healthy snacks on hand, such as fruit, nuts, or oatcakes.
- Don’t forget hydration – drinking warm teas, broths, or water is just as important in winter as summer.
Our award-winning approach:
At Braeburn Care, we are proud of our recognition for excellence in nutrition and mealtime support. Our carers take time to prepare meals that are not only nourishing but also appealing – encouraging customers to enjoy eating even when appetite is low. We also adapt meals to customer preferences and health requirements, whether that’s softer foods, dietary restrictions, or favourite home recipes.
Flu Jabs and Winter Vaccinations
Flu and other winter viruses pose a greater risk to older people, especially those with underlying health conditions. Flu jabs and COVID-19 boosters are simple yet highly effective ways of reducing risk.
Why flu jabs are important:
- Protects against the most common flu strains of the season.
- Reduces the risk of severe illness and hospital admission.
- Offers peace of mind for families and carers.
Supporting vaccination access:
Our carers can remind customers about upcoming vaccination appointments, provide transport assistance, or even help book them if needed. By working alongside families, we ensure no appointments are missed and customers stay protected throughout the winter.
Fall Prevention: Staying Safe Indoors and Outdoors
Falls are a major risk during colder months due to icy conditions outside and cluttered or poorly lit homes inside.
Tips for fall prevention:
- Keep hallways and walkways free of clutter.
- Use non-slip mats and ensure rugs are secured.
- Encourage sturdy footwear indoors and outdoors.
- Install good lighting, particularly near stairs and entrances.
- Salt or grit outdoor paths in icy conditions.
Braeburn Care’s role:
Our care team can support with safe mobility around the home, ensure walkways are clear, and encourage safe footwear. If a fall does occur, having regular visits provides reassurance that help is close by.
Beating Loneliness and Isolation
Winter can be isolating, particularly with shorter daylight hours and cold weather discouraging outings. Loneliness impacts not only mental health but also physical wellbeing.
How we help:
Companionship care is central to what we do. From a friendly chat over tea to helping with hobbies, or accompanying customers on short walks, our carers provide much-needed company and connection during the winter months.
How Braeburn Care Supports Winter Wellbeing
At Braeburn Care, we tailor our services to meet the needs of each customer and their family. For winter specifically, our care plans may include:
- Supporting with personal care throughout.
- Checking heating and home safety.
- Preparing nutritious, warming meals.
- Supporting vaccination reminders and appointments.
- Encouraging safe routines to prevent falls.
- Providing companionship and reassurance during the darker months.
With a dedicated team of trained Care Professionals, we provide families across Kent and East Sussex with peace of mind that their loved ones are safe, warm, and supported – whatever the weather.
Winter can be a challenging season, but with the right support, older loved ones can continue to live happily, safely, and independently at home. By focusing on heating, nutrition, vaccinations, fall prevention, and companionship, families can significantly reduce the risks that colder months often bring.
If you’re looking for trusted home care support in Kent or East Sussex this winter, the team at Braeburn Care is here to help. Learn more about our services or get in touch today:
📞 Call us on 01892 577680
📩 Email enquiries@braeburncare.co.uk
