Why staying comfortable matters more in later life
As we age, we can become more vulnerable to temperature changes, especially during cold snaps and heatwaves.
Older people can be more vulnerable to extremes of temperature for a number of reasons:
- Many older people feel the cold more easily as circulation changes with age
- Hot or cold temperatures can also make conditions worse, including heart disease, arthritis, diabetes and certain lung conditions
- Older people may be less aware of feeling thirsty, increasing their risk of dehydration
- They may also be more vulnerable to heat exhaustion and heatstroke
The NHS website also contains helpful information about seasonal health risks and how to stay well throughout the year.
A good care home adapts throughout the year to keep residents safe, comfortable and well. From hot summer days to cold winter evenings, small changes to daily routines, activities and support can make a significant difference to older people’s wellbeing.
At Watermoor House, we make thoughtful adjustments throughout the year to help residents remain comfortable while maintaining the familiar routines that are so important.
Keeping Warm in Winter
During the colder months, we take extra steps to ensure residents stay warm and comfortable.
This may include:
- Offering extra blankets where needed.
- Providing additional hot drinks throughout the day and before bedtime.
- Serving warming home-cooked meals, with delicious homemade soups available for supper.
- Keeping communal lounges warm, welcoming and cosy.
We make sure that the entire house stays warm and comfortable throughout the winter.
For people living with memory loss, consistency and reassurance remain especially important during the winter months. Our team keeps a close eye on how residents are feeling, offering encouragement and support while maintaining familiar daily routines.
Staying Cool in Summer
When temperatures rise, we adapt our routines to help residents stay cool and comfortable.
This includes:
- Providing shaded seating areas in our gardens, and staying indoors during the warmest parts of the day.
- Ensuring bedrooms and communal areas remain as cool as possible.
- Offering lighter meals, regular drinks and juicy fruit snacks.
- Planning activities to suit the warmer weather.
Hydration is particularly important for older people during the summer. Throughout the day we encourage regular drinks and offer ice lollies, fresh fruit, jellies, and other refreshing treats to help residents stay hydrated.
When Families Start Thinking About Care
Seasonal changes often prompt families to review whether a loved one is receiving the support they need. Whether it’s coping with hot weather, keeping warm in winter or managing changing health needs, these times of year can highlight when a little extra support would make everyday life easier.
If you’re beginning to explore residential care, we’re always happy to answer your questions and explain the options available.
Our focus remains on providing a calm, caring and welcoming environment where residents feel safe, comfortable and at home throughout the changing seasons.
If you would like to find out more about life at Watermoor House, or arrange a visit, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.