Winter can be a beautiful season full of family and festivities, but with it, also comes cold weather and a chill that can make us feel uncomfortable and sometimes poorly. The cold weather can be especially dangerous for those living with dementia, as it impairs the body ability to regulate temperature. Individuals with dementia may experience reduced perception of temperature changes and may not recognise feeling too hot or too cold. 

Here at Bluebird Care Stamford & Rutland, our priority is to help you stay safe, warm, and happy during the colder months, whether that’s through advice, extra visits, or simply a friendly chat over a warm mug of hot chocolate.

Here are some helpful tips to help keep you cosy this winter, with suggestions for how friends, family and our Bluebird Care team can support you:

1. Keep your home warm and comfortable

You should aim to keep the rooms you use most at around 18–21°C. A steady temperature helps you stay warm without putting too much strain on your heating bills. 

• Close curtains in the evening to keep the warmth in, but open them during the day to let in natural sunlight.
• Block draughts around windows and doors using draft excluders or rolled-up blankets.
• Use a hot water bottle to warm up your bed before getting in.
• If you have heating controls or a timer, set them to come on just before you get up and switch off after you’ve gone to bed.

2. Dress in cosy layers

Wearing several thin layers will trap warm air better than one thick layer. Materials like wool and fleece are great at keeping heat in.

• Layer up with a vest, jumper and cardigan or fleece.
• Wear warm socks and slippers indoors to keep your feet nice and toasty.
• Pop a blanket over your shoulders when sitting down to watch TV or read.

If you’re heading outside, wear a hat, scarf and gloves, you lose a lot of body heat through your head and hands!

3. Eat well and drink hot drinks

Eating regular, balanced meals helps you maintain energy and warmth.

• Enjoy hearty meals like soups, stews, and porridge.
• Have hot drinks throughout the day like tea, coffee, or even a mug of warm milk.
• Try to include a variety of vegetables, proteins, and carbohydrates in your meals to keep your body fuelled and your energy up.

4. Keep moving!

Moving around helps boost circulation and helps you stay warmer. You don’t have to do anything strenuous, just light activity every so often will make a big difference.

• Walk around the room or house once an hour.
• Try gentle stretches or seated exercises.
• Why not put on your favourite festive music and have a little boogie!

5. Look after your health

Cold weather can make some health conditions worse, so it’s important to look after yourself and pay attention to how you’re feeling.

• Keep up with any prescribed medication and check you have enough in stock.
• Book your flu vaccinations if you haven’t already.
• If you start to feel unwell, seek advice early from your GP or NHS 111.

6. Stay connected

Winter can sometimes feel lonely, especially if the weather makes it harder to get out. Keeping in touch with friends, family and neighbours is just as important for your wellbeing as staying physically warm. 

• Arrange regular phone calls or video chats with friends and family.
• Invite a friend or neighbour round for tea.

If you’re feeling isolated, let us know. Our Bluebird Care team is always happy to stop by for a friendly visit or pick up the phone for a chat.

7. How we can help

Here at Bluebird Care Stamford & Rutland we’re here to make winter a little easier and more comfortable for you. Whether that means:

• Popping in more often during the colder months.
• Helping with shopping so you can stock up on essentials.
• Preparing warm, nutritious meals.
• Making sure your home is comfortable and safe.

Staying warm in winter isn’t just about comfort, it’s about keeping you and your loved ones safe and well. Small steps like layering up, heating your home, eating well and staying connected can make a big difference. Your comfort, health, and happiness are at the heart of everything we do because it’s good to have a helping hand.

It’s also important to remember that you’re not alone. Whether you need a little extra help at home, someone to check in, or just a chat on a cold afternoon, we at Bluebird Care Stamford & Rutland are only a phone call away.

01780 480 881.