Jessica

Keeping well over Winter: Practical advice for Elderly Relatives and their families

Winter can be a challenging time for many, especially for elderly individuals who may face health risks from colder weather, shorter days, and reduced mobility. Keeping well over winter is vital.

As Britons, we often ask, 'Are you keeping well?' It’s a simple question, but during winter, it’s one that carries extra weight, especially for our elderly loved ones.

For families in Macclesfield caring for elderly relatives, it’s essential to focus on physical and mental well-being during this season. By taking a proactive approach, you can help keep their immune system, health, and spirits high as the temperature drops.

If you’re looking for tips to keep elderly relatives healthy over the winter break, this guide provides practical advice to support their well-being and ensure they thrive during the colder months.

The Importance of Staying Healthy in Winter

Winter brings unique challenges for us all, but especially older people. The cold weather increases the risk of illnesses such as colds and flu, while icy conditions can make outdoor activities more hazardous (will it snow again?!!). Limited daylight hours can also impact mood, leading to feelings of isolation or low energy.

Physical and mental health are deeply connected. Staying active, eating well, and maintaining social connections can significantly improve overall well-being. For elderly individuals, small, consistent actions can help combat the physical effects of winter while boosting their emotional resilience.

Physical Health Tips

Nutrition

A nutritious diet is key to supporting the immune system during winter. Ensure your elderly relatives are eating meals that include:

• Immune-boosting foods: Incorporate fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins C and D, such as oranges, broccoli, and leafy greens.
• Warming dishes: Soups and stews are excellent options that provide essential nutrients while helping to keep the body warm.
• Healthy fats: Include foods like nuts, seeds, and oily fish, which are beneficial for heart and brain health.

Don’t forget hydration. Although we often associate drinking plenty of water with summer, staying hydrated is just as important in winter. Offer herbal teas, warm milk, or low-sugar hot chocolate as alternatives to water.

Exercise

Regular physical activity helps improve circulation, maintain muscle strength, and reduce the risk of falls. Here are some suggestions for keeping active:

• Indoor exercises: Gentle routines like chair yoga, stretching, or light resistance exercises are perfect for maintaining mobility indoors.
• Outdoor walks: On clear, dry days, encourage short walks in a safe area with appropriate clothing and non-slip footwear.
• Household tasks: Simple chores like tidying up or arranging bookshelves can keep the body moving and provide a sense of accomplishment.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FQoGtvm62HE

Preventative Measures

Keeping elderly relatives warm and protected from illnesses is crucial. Consider these steps:

• Layer up: Ensure they have warm, layered clothing and use blankets or heated pads when sitting for extended periods.
• Hand hygiene: Remind them of the importance of washing hands regularly, especially if they’ve been out in public.
• Avoid loneliness: Encourage connections with friends, neighbours, or local groups to help combat isolation during the winter months. For more ideas, see our article on reducing loneliness at Christmas.

Mental Well-being Tips

Social Connections

Loneliness can be particularly difficult during winter. Staying socially connected can make a big difference to mental health:

• Arrange regular visits or video calls with family and friends.
• Encourage participation in local Macclesfield events, such as community centres or library groups.
• Organise small gatherings, like a coffee morning or board game afternoon, to keep them engaged.

Activities for Mental Stimulation

Keeping the mind active is just as important as physical activity. Here are some ideas:

• Puzzles and games: Crosswords, jigsaw puzzles, and card games can provide hours of enjoyment.
• Creative hobbies: Encourage activities like knitting, painting, or scrapbooking to spark creativity.
• Reminiscence sessions: Looking through photo albums or sharing stories from the past can boost memory and emotional well-being.

Light Exposure

The shorter days of winter can affect mood and energy levels. Help elderly relatives get as much natural light as possible:

• Encourage sitting near a window during daylight hours.
• Take short outdoor walks on sunny days.
• Consider a light therapy lamp if they’re struggling with seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
• Keeping warm is vital too. Here's some tips on the Age UK website.

How Families in Macclesfield Can Help

As a caregiver or family member, there are plenty of ways you can make winter more manageable for your elderly relatives. Start by creating a simple checklist to ensure their daily needs are met. This might include:

• Preparing warm, nutritious meals.
• Setting up a daily routine that includes both physical and mental activities.
• Checking their home is warm and safe, such as sealing draughts and ensuring they have easy access to essentials.

Take advantage of local resources in Macclesfield to provide additional support.

• Combat loneliness: Explore ways to ensure elderly relatives remain socially engaged, like attending local events or simply reaching out for regular chats. For more ideas, visit our guide on supporting elderly relatives during Christmas. Community groups, fitness classes for seniors, and befriending schemes can offer companionship and a sense of belonging. For example, local charities often organise winter activities tailored to elderly individuals, such as craft workshops or tea parties.

How Riseley House Supports Winter Well-being

At Riseley House, we understand the challenges that winter brings and are dedicated to keeping our residents healthy and happy. Our team ensures that:

• Residents enjoy a balanced, nourishing diet with seasonal dishes prepared fresh every day.
• Engaging indoor activities, such as arts and crafts or music sessions, keep spirits high even when it’s cold outside.
• Regular exercise classes, tailored to individual abilities, help maintain mobility and strength.

For families seeking additional support during winter, we also offer respite care. Whether you need a short break or extra help to ensure your loved one receives the care they need, we’re here to provide a safe and welcoming environment.

Conclusion to keeping well over winter

Keeping elderly relatives healthy over the winter break requires a balance of physical activity, mental engagement, and social connection. By focusing on small, consistent actions, you can help boost their well-being and ensure they feel cared for during the colder months.

If you’d like more advice or need support this winter, Riseley House is here to help. Together, we can make winter a season of warmth, connection, and health for your loved ones.

by Jessica