19 October 2023

Activities that can help keep older adults warm in the winter

With the arrival of the colder seasons, there is always a drop in temperature, which can take many of us by surprise. Not all of us have the means to rely on our heating with high energy prices, but there are some ways in which we can keep warm in our homes without having to rely solely on putting the heating on. In this blog, we have looked at some ways older adults can stay warm in their homes through activities and hobbies.

Indoor exercise

One of the best ways to heat your body up is to participate in exercise at home. Of course, this isn’t always easy when you struggle with mobility, but there are some nonstrenuous ways to get yourself warm and help your overall fitness. You will only need to try light exercises to get the blood flowing, such as stretches using your legs and arms whilst remaining seated.

If you feel like you can move around a little, then trying yoga can be a nice, low-impact exercise for older people, as well as activities such as walking and dancing, strength or resistance training. For those who may find intense exercise challenging, especially older individuals, there's no need to push yourself too hard. Commencing with modest activities is perfectly acceptable; just assess what you can comfortably manage and consider seeking assistance from a family member when you start.

For instance, a simple task like walking across the room might suffice, and the following days can involve incremental increases. As confidence and fitness levels grow, chair-bound individuals can engage in air punching exercises, gradually intensifying speed and duration. The objective is to achieve mild breathlessness without reaching a point of feeling unwell, in pain, or experiencing dizziness, and, of course, keeping you warm.

READ MORE: Exercise tips for older people

Crafts and hobbies

In the midst of chilly weather, there's a unique joy in finding solace and warmth through engaging hobbies and crafts. Whether it is physical warmth or a comforting ambience, these activities will surely provide a cosy respite from the cold.

Hobbies such as knitting or crocheting can be a wonderful way to keep your body and your mind busy by using the motion of needles or hooks to transform yarn into incredible masterpieces. You can create scarves, hats, and blankets that provide physical warmth and a sense of accomplishment.

While outdoor gardening might be on hold during colder months, indoor gardening with heat-loving plants can be a fulfilling winter hobby, as the act of nurturing plants brings a sense of warmth and connection to nature. As the cold weather sets in, don't let the chill keep you indoors and inactive. You should look at embracing any hobbies and crafts you enjoy, as they will keep you physically warm and can warm your spirit.

Cooking and baking

If your mobility allows it, then choosing to spend a few hours in the kitchen cooking or baking your favourite things can be a great way to stay warm and spend time doing something you enjoy, whether baking your favourite treats or preparing an autumn or winter-inspired dinner, you will not only help heat your home, but also you will be keeping your body moving which will help to keep you warm.

Cooking and baking involve the use of stoves, ovens, and other kitchen appliances that generate heat. The warmth produced by these appliances can contribute to the ambient temperature of your kitchen and nearby living spaces. When baking, especially during colder months, consider leaving the oven door slightly ajar after you've finished cooking. The residual heat will escape into the kitchen and surrounding areas, providing additional warmth.

Additionally, the delightful aromas of cooking and baking can have a psychologically warming effect. The scent of simmering stews, freshly baked bread, or sweet treats creates a sense of comfort and cosiness, making your home feel warmer.

Embracing seasonal ingredients and cooking themes associated with colder months can create a sense of connection with the weather outside. For example, baking apple crumble in the autumn or making hearty stews in winter can enhance the overall feeling of warmth.

READ MORE: Quick and Easy Winter Recipes

Extra advice

For those struggling with mobility, there are other ways to keep your home warm without needing to move around. Firstly, ensuring your heating is on consistently will help to ensure rooms stay at a reasonable temperature. It is advised that your thermostat is set between 18 to 21 degrees Celsius during winter, as this will keep your energy bills as low as possible whilst you are heating your home. Additionally, making sure that you have adequate clothing on, such as thick socks, jumpers and even thermal underwear, will help.

There are also certain things that can be done to your home to ensure that the heat is retained, such as closing blinds and curtains, which will create a barrier against the cold. Another way to ensure you stay warm is by sipping on hot drinks such as tea or coffee, as this keeps you warm and is also comforting. Preparing warm, nourishing meals, such as soups and stews, helps older people stay and can be packed with nutritious vegetables to help keep a balanced diet. Having a warm bath or shower before bed can help elevate body temperature.

These are just some of the ways that older people can help stay warm during the colder months, and even though it can be difficult to get moving if you struggle with your mobility, these are good ways to keep your body moving.

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