Last Updated: July 24, 2026
The winter months are challenging for care homes and residents as heating costs rise and an energy crisis threatens.
Winter is fast approaching, which means taking precautions to keep yourself warm. It can be difficult for elderly people during winter; however, with some preparation and top tips, you can stay comfortable and safe. Here are some suggestions for keeping warm in your home during the cold winter months.
Stay active – even during colder weather
When it comes to staying active during winter, especially if you’re elderly or live in a care facility, it can be tempting to curl up in front of the TV or fire, but being inactive can make you feel even colder. So get up and move around every so often to keep your blood circulating. Instead of sitting down to watch TV, take a brisk walk around the block. If you can’t walk outside, do chair marches or sit-to-stand exercises indoors. Keep your muscles warm when the temperature drops by stretching before and after physical activity. Being active will not only make you feel warmer but will also improve your health.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
With increasing age, our bodies have trouble regulating their temperature, which makes staying warm in winter more difficult. To stay hydrated and to regulate your body temperature, it’s essential that older people, especially those in care homes, take steps to keep their bodies warm. Stay hydrated by drinking warm beverages and fluids.
Keeping warm by wearing socks and warm clothes.
Older people need to retain heat and stay warm during the colder months as the days become shorter and the temperatures drop. Even so, layering is one of the most effective ways to stay warm and provide heat escaping. For additional warmth, the most effective way to keep warm is to wear a base of thin layers of thermal underwear followed by a woollen sweater and coat. Covering your head and hands are also essential, as these are places where heat loss can quickly occur.
Keep warm air in your bedroom and cold air out.
As the temperatures drop, follow these tips to keep warm. First, make sure your house is well-insulated so that you can trap heat and prevent it from escaping through cracks in walls or windows. You should invest in draught excluders for your bedroom window to keep the cold air out and the heat in. Third, make sure your heating system is working. Keep your bedroom at a comfortable temperature if you have central heating. If you have an electric heater, consider getting a portable one that you can keep in your bedroom. Also, ensure that you shut doors. Follow these tips to ensure your bedroom remains warm and cosy all winter. Doing so will prevent heat from escaping from other parts of the home.
Maintain a healthy body temperature
If you have health problems, a face covering can help protect you against colds and the flu as temperatures drop. Getting a flu jab and taking vitamin D supplements are also wise ideas. If you experience a medical emergency, your local pharmacy can provide advice and support. If you have a health condition, you should monitor your symptoms and seek medical help if necessary.
Eat healthy foods that will keep you warm.
The winter months are approaching, and taking care of your health is vital to avoid getting sick. One way to do this is to eat healthy foods that will help keep you warm. Older adults and care home residents are particularly vulnerable to cold weather, so it is crucial to ensure they consume a nutritious diet. In addition to being packed with vitamins and minerals, soups and stews are also helpful for keeping you hydrated. Other options include roasted vegetables, whole grains, and nuts. Simple changes to your diet can help you stay healthy this winter and avoid getting sick.
Feeling cold? Warm up with a heating pad or hot water bottle.
A heating pad is one simple and effective way to keep warm and comfortable throughout the winter as temperatures drop. Under your clothing or on top of a blanket, heating pads provide targeted warmth to help keep off the chill during the winter months. For quick warmth during the day, place a heating pad on your lap or back if you get cold. In addition, heating pads can be used at night to preheat your bed before you get into it, or you can leave it on low while you sleep. Hot water bottles and electric blankets may require supervision to avoid any accidents.
Sleep well – your body needs time to rest and replenish
Our bodies become less efficient at regulating internal temperatures as we age. Therefore, the most effective way to protect yourself from cold weather is to get a good night’s sleep. Our bodies naturally lower their temperature when we sleep, so it is vital to ensure you are well-rested before exposing yourself to cold weather.
Socialise with friends and family members, or join group activities at the care home
One way to stay warm when the weather gets colder is to spend time with family and friends. Staying social boosts morale and helps to stave off feelings of loneliness and isolation. Participating in group activities at the care home during the winter is also beneficial. These activities keep you active and engaged and provide you with the warmth of human companionship. So be social and stay warm despite the cold weather.
Following these simple tips, older people living in care homes can stay comfortable and healthy all winter long as the days get shorter and temperatures drop. Wearing layers of warm clothing, eating foods that will keep them warm, heating pads and hot water bottles if they’re feeling cold, and sleeping well are some tips.
Stay warm this winter, living in a care home.
A care home will always strive to ensure your room is heated to a comfortable temperature. They will also ensure you have enough blankets and clothing to stay warm. What’s more, the care home community is a great place to socialise and keep warm!
Find the Perfect Care Home this Winter
When finding a care home, use our Care Choices directory. Our care homes are carefully screened and rated so that you can find the best care home for your loved one.
Cold weather doesn’t have to keep you from enjoying your life. Care Choices can help you find the perfect care home for you or your loved one. With winter coming, ensure you and your loved ones are safe and warm.
