Winter Diet Tips for Older Adults

As the temperatures drop, many families begin to wonder: how can we help our loved ones stay healthy and comfortable during the colder months? For older adults, winter brings unique challenges. Appetite often changes with age, mobility can make preparing meals more difficult, and colder homes can affect both wellbeing and energy levels. At Home Instead Yeovil, Sherborne & Bridport, we believe that the right support, thoughtful meal planning, and warm companionship can make all the difference.

This blog shares practical tips on creating wholesome meals, accessing support such as meals on wheels, and ensuring nutrition stays balanced and comforting through the winter season.

For some older people in Yeovil and the surrounding areas, good nutrition can feel out of reach. Common challenges include:

• Reduced appetite caused by medications or health conditions. 
• Difficulty cooking due to mobility or strength issues. 
• Chewing or swallowing problems, which can make certain foods uncomfortable. 
• Loneliness, which may reduce motivation to prepare or eat meals. 
• Cognitive changes, where memory loss might lead to missed mealtimes. 

Recognising these challenges is the first step in finding supportive, practical solutions.

When portion sizes are small, meals should be as nourishing as possible. Some simple ways to add extra nutrition include:

• Stirring powdered milk into porridge or soups. 
• Choosing fortified cereals or plant-based milks. 
• Adding healthy fats like avocado, nut butter, or olive oil. 
• Blending extra vegetables into soups and sauces. 

Smoothies and shakes can also be an easy, enjoyable option for those who struggle with larger meals.

Top up your Vitamin D

Vitamin D plays an important role in keeping our bones, teeth, and muscles strong. However, between October and early March, our bodies don’t get enough vitamin D from sunlight. That’s why the government recommends that everyone considers taking a daily supplement of 10 micrograms of vitamin D during the autumn and winter months.

Read more on the NHS website.

Eating together often improves appetite and enjoyment. Whether it’s a family dinner, a lunch group, or a simple cup of tea with a neighbour, these social touches bring comfort. For those unable to meet in person, even a video call during mealtimes can create connection.

At Home Instead Yeovil, Sherborne & Bridport, our carers often sit and share conversation while preparing or serving meals, turning food into a warm, social experience.

Everyone is unique, and meal plans should reflect that. Carers take into account:

• Medical needs such as diabetes, heart conditions, or food intolerances. 
• Personal preferences, familiar and favourite meals often encourage eating. 
• Texture adaptations for those with chewing or swallowing difficulties. 
• Hydration, as older adults may forget to drink enough fluids. 

Sometimes, advice from a dietitian is helpful for creating safe, enjoyable meal plans.

Dementia can bring additional challenges at mealtimes. Simple approaches can help:

• Offering familiar foods that feel comforting. 
• Using finger foods when cutlery becomes difficult. 
• Choosing contrasting plates to make meals easier to see. 
• Creating a calm environment, free from distractions. 

These small adjustments can make a big difference to appetite and confidence.

• Eat at least one hot meal daily. 
• Drink plenty of warm fluids. 
• Keep moving with light stretches or short walks. 
• Heat the main rooms to around 18°C. 
• Layer clothing and use blankets for comfort. 
• Stay up to date with winter vaccinations. 
• Keep simple, nutritious foods and emergency supplies at home. 
• Reach out to neighbours, friends, and family for connection.

Looking for more advice? Read our blog “Stay Safe, Warm, and Well: Essential Tips for Elderly at Home This Autumn and Winter in Yeovil” for practical winter safety and wellness tips.