The Hidden Dangers of Cold Homes for Older People — What Families Need to Know

As temperatures drop during the winter months, many families worry about how the cold weather may affect their elderly loved ones. What’s often overlooked is just how dangerous a cold home can be for older people, even when it doesn’t feel extremely cold.

Cold homes are linked to increased illness, falls, confusion and even hospital admissions among the elderly. Understanding these risks and knowing how home care can help, is key to keeping loved ones safe, well and comfortable throughout winter.

Why Cold Homes Are So Dangerous for Older Adults

Older people are far more vulnerable to cold temperatures than younger adults. As we age, our bodies struggle to regulate temperature as effectively, and medical conditions or medications can worsen this.

Living in a cold home can lead to:

• Increased risk of respiratory infections, including flu and pneumonia

• Worsening of heart conditions and higher blood pressure

• Greater chance of falls, as cold muscles stiffen and reaction times slow

• Confusion and memory issues, particularly for people living with dementia

• Low mood, isolation and increased risk of depression

Many older people also worry about heating costs and may avoid turning the heating on, even when it’s unsafe to do so.

Signs Your Loved One May Be Living in a Cold Home

Families are often unaware that a loved one is struggling with the cold. Warning signs to look out for include:

• Wearing multiple layers indoors

• Keeping heating switched off despite cold weather

• Cold hands, feet or skin

• Staying in bed for long periods to keep warm

• Missed meals or lack of hot food

• Increased confusion, tiredness or low mood

If you notice these signs, it may be time to consider extra support.

Winter Risks Are Higher for People Living Alone

Older adults who live alone are particularly at risk during winter. Without regular visitors, cold homes can go unnoticed for long periods.

Short daily tasks, such as checking the heating, preparing warm meals or ensuring medication is taken, can become overwhelming. This is where home care support can make a life-changing difference.

How Home Care Helps Keep Older People Safe in Winter

Home care isn’t just about personal care, it’s about wellbeing, safety and reassurance for both clients and families.

At Homelium, our carers support older people through winter by:

• Checking that homes are warm and safe

• Encouraging appropriate heating use

• Preparing hot meals and drinks

• Supporting medication routines

• Providing companionship and emotional support

• Spotting early signs of illness or deterioration

For families, this means peace of mind knowing someone trusted is regularly checking in.

Cold Homes and Dementia: A Hidden Winter Risk

Cold temperatures can significantly increase confusion and distress for people living with dementia. They may struggle to recognise they’re cold or remember how to use heating controls.

Consistent home care support provides reassurance, routine and comfort, helping reduce winter-related risks while allowing loved ones to remain safely at home.

Take a look at how Homelium Care can help support with dementia care!

When to Seek Support

If you’re worried about an elderly parent, partner or relative during the winter months, it’s always better to seek advice early.

Home care can be arranged flexibly, from short visits and wellbeing checks to daily care or live-in support, depending on individual needs.

How Homelium Can Help

Homelium provides high-quality, person-centred home care across the UK, helping older people stay safe, warm and independent in their own homes.

We offer:

• Free care consultations

• Flexible home care and companionship services

• Experienced, compassionate carers

• Winter wellbeing checks and ongoing support

We also offer 2 hours of free care, giving families the opportunity to experience our service with no obligation.

Final Thoughts

Cold homes pose serious, but often hidden, dangers for older people. With the right support in place, these risks can be reduced, allowing loved ones to stay safe, comfortable and cared for throughout winter.

If you’re concerned about someone you love, Homelium is here to help.

Contact our care team today for a no-obligation chat or to arrange a free care consultation and ask about our 2 hours free care offer!

Call 0333 3448 677 or fill out a contact for form