Staying Warm and Well This Winter in Leeds

The clocks go back on Sunday 25 October, and for many older people in Leeds that means shorter days, colder homes and fewer reasons to get out. Winter can be a hard time, but a few simple steps can make a real difference to health, safety and happiness.

1. Keep the home warm

Cold homes can raise the risk of chest infections, falls and heart problems. The NHS recommends heating the rooms you use most to at least 18°C. Simple things help too: close curtains at dusk, keep doors shut to hold heat in one room, and wear several thin layers rather than one thick one. A hot meal and warm drinks through the day also help keep the body warm.

2. Get winter vaccinations

The NHS offers a free flu vaccine to everyone aged 65 and over, and other vaccines may be offered depending on age and health. Ask the GP surgery or a local pharmacy what your loved one is eligible for, ideally before the coldest weather arrives.

3. Prevent slips and falls

Darker evenings and icy paths make falls more likely. Check that hallways and stairs are well lit, consider plug-in night lights, and keep a torch by the bed. Outside, good grippy footwear and a little help with errands on frosty days can prevent a nasty fall.

4. Stay connected

Loneliness often gets worse in winter, when going out feels harder. Regular phone calls, a weekly visit or a trip to a local community group all help. Leeds has plenty of friendly spaces, from libraries to community centres, where older people can enjoy company over a cup of tea.

5. Eat well and keep moving

Regular hot meals, plenty of fluids and gentle movement indoors, such as chair exercises, help keep energy up and joints moving. Keeping the cupboards stocked with easy, nourishing food makes cold or icy days less stressful.

How Home Instead Leeds Central can help

If you’re worried about a loved one this winter, our Care Professionals can help them stay safe and well at home. We can:

• Pop in to check the home is warm and safe
• Prepare hot, nourishing meals and drinks
• Help with shopping and errands on cold or icy days
• Offer companionship and accompany clients to appointments or community groups
• Provide personal care, dementia care, respite or live-in care

We support families across central, north, east and west Leeds, including Headingley, Meanwood, Chapel Allerton, Harehills, Cross Gates, Armley, Bramley and Kirkstall. We are rated Good by the CQC.

Call us on 0113 518 3005 to arrange a free, no-obligation care consultation before winter sets in.