An elderly person wrapped in a warm blanket, sitting by a window on a cold winter day, emphasising the importance of staying warm for health and wellbeing.

As the colder months approach, ensuring our elderly population stays warm becomes more important than ever. Research shows that maintaining a warm home isn’t just about comfort – it’s essential for health, sleep, and overall wellbeing. However, with rising energy costs and recent changes to government support, staying warm is becoming increasingly challenging for many older people.

At Devon Duvets, we care deeply about wellbeing, and this blog highlights why warmth is so crucial for the elderly, the health risks of cold homes, and how we can all help to make a difference.

The changing needs of the elderly in winter

As we age, our bodies naturally become more vulnerable to the effects of cold weather. This is due to a combination of factors, including a slower metabolic rate, reduced muscle mass, and thinner layers of insulating fat beneath the skin. These changes make it harder for older people to generate and retain body heat.

Additionally, certain health conditions and medications can affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature, making it even more difficult for older individuals to stay warm.

What Is the ideal home temperature for elderly people?

The NHS recommends that the main living area for older people be kept at a minimum of 21°C (70°F), with other rooms no lower than 18°C (64°F). Temperatures below this can significantly increase the risk of health complications.

In fact, studies published in The Lancet have shown that cold environments can worsen conditions such as arthritis, high blood pressure, and even increase the risk of heart attacks or strokes. Cold air also weakens the immune system, leaving older people more susceptible to respiratory illnesses like pneumonia and bronchitis.

The health risks of cold homes

For elderly individuals, living in a cold home can lead to:

  • Respiratory illnesses: Such as bronchitis and pneumonia, caused by weakened immunity in cold conditions.
  • Cardiovascular strain: Cold weather forces the heart to work harder, potentially triggering heart attacks or strokes.
  • Falls and injuries: As a result of stiffer muscles and joints, making movement more challenging.
  • Mental health challenges: Including feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression, which can be exacerbated in a cold, unwelcoming environment.
  • Disrupted sleep: As the body struggles to maintain warmth this affects both the quality and duration of rest. 

The importance of sleep and warmth

Good sleep is a cornerstone of health and wellbeing, particularly for older people. However, sleeping in a cold environment can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep, leading to exhaustion, irritability, and weakened immunity.

Warm and breathable bedding, made from natural materials like wool, can help regulate body temperature, ensuring that sleepers stay cosy without overheating. Creating a comfortable and warm sleeping environment is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to improve sleep quality during the winter months.

The loss of Winter Fuel Payments

In the past, Winter Fuel Payments provided critical financial support to help older people heat their homes. However, recent changes have restricted this payment to those receiving certain income-related benefits, such as Pension Credit.

According to Age UK, this change means that at least 2.5 million older people on low incomes will no longer qualify for this support, leaving them vulnerable to rising energy costs and the associated health risks of cold homes. This makes community support and alternative assistance even more vital.

How we can help

Keeping warm is not just a personal responsibility – it’s a community effort. Here are some small but impactful ways we can help support elderly friends, family, and neighbours this winter:

  • Check in regularly to ensure their home is warm and they have everything they need.
  • Offer practical support, such as providing warm clothing and blankets.
  • Encourage local action by supporting community programmes that help vulnerable people stay warm.

It’s also important to remember the value of kindness. A friendly chat or small gesture can go a long way in making someone feel cared for and less alone during the colder months.

Staying warm and safe this Winter

A warm home is not a luxury – it’s a necessity for health and wellbeing. If you know someone who may be struggling to keep warm this winter, consider reaching out. Small actions, when combined, can make a big difference.

At Devon Duvets, we believe in the power of community and the importance of supporting those around us. By working together, we can ensure everyone stays warm, safe, and cared for this winter.

Thank you for reading this blog and take care this winter.