Every winter brings its own challenges, but this year feels different. The cost of living crisis hasn’t eased, it’s tightened. Energy bills remain high, food prices haven’t returned to normal, and many older people across the UK are stepping into winter with a quiet sense of worry.
For those living alone, or coping with long-term health issues, these pressures don’t just impact comfort: they can affect health, safety and emotional wellbeing. And we’re already seeing the strain.
Cold homes are becoming more common and more dangerous
Many older adults are keeping their heating on for fewer hours or running it at lower temperatures because they’re afraid of the bills. It sounds like a small adjustment, but the impact can be severe:
- joints stiffen more easily
- circulation slows
- the risk of falls increases
- long-term conditions flare
- respiratory infections spread faster
A cold home isn’t just uncomfortable. For a vulnerable person, it can be risky.
Choosing between heating and eating
Another trend we’re seeing this winter is older adults simplifying meals to save money,Discover how the cost of living crisis is impacting older adults this winter and how CareStaff24’s Winter Wellbeing Support Plan keeps them safe and supported. skipping cooked breakfasts, relying on snacks, or reducing portion sizes. It’s subtle, and people don’t always talk about it, but carers notice:
- empty cupboards or fridges with very little food
- unopened meal deliveries
- a decline in appetite and energy
- visible weight loss over time
Nutrition directly affects strength, balance and mood. When meals get smaller, everything else follows.
Cost of Living Rise Over the Last 5 Years (UK)
| Year | Energy Costs | Food Prices | Household Bills | General Inflation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Baseline | Baseline | Baseline | 1% – 1.5% |
| 2021 | +9% | +3% | +2% | 2.6% |
| 2022 | +54% | +11% | +6% | 9% – 11% |
| 2023 | +27% | +18% | +8% | 6% – 7% |
| 2024 | +12% | +9% | +5% | 4% – 5% |
| 2025 | +7% (forecast) | +5% (forecast) | +3% (forecast) | 3.2% (forecast) |
*Figures represent UK-wide cost increases from publicly reported averages, rounded for clarity and trend accuracy.*
Loneliness deepens when money is tight
Even small social activities: a coffee, a bus ride, a visit to the shops; become less frequent when budgets are stretched. For older adults, that means fewer conversations, fewer reasons to leave the house and less mental stimulation.
Isolation grows quietly in winter, especially during a financial crisis.
Where CareStaff24 can make the difference
This crisis is tough, but there are solutions, some practical, some emotional, all meaningful. And they don’t always require big spending.
1. Warmth through smart home adjustments
Carers can help manage heating sensibly, not dangerously. Small actions make a big difference: closing curtains at dusk, checking for draughts, moving favourite chairs away from cold windows, making sure people have layers and blankets within reach, and ensuring radiators aren’t blocked.
A home can feel warmer without raising the thermostat.
2. Helping create warm, nutritious winter meals
Carers can prepare simple meals that cost little but fuel the body: thick soups, stews, porridge, vegetables and slow-cooker dishes; all warm, filling and budget-friendly. This helps people stay strong, energised and steady on their feet.
3. Spotting problems early
Carers often notice what families can’t: a darker home, unopened letters, damp rooms, incorrect medication or a lack of food. Early spotting prevents crises and keeps people safe, especially when money worries mean people are reluctant to ask for help.
4. Regular visits that reduce loneliness
One of the most powerful things a carer can give is time, conversation, companionship and reassurance. It’s often the highlight of a person’s day, especially in winter when getting out is more difficult and social contact naturally drops.
5. Helping with safe energy-saving habits
A carer can gently help someone turn off unused appliances, use safe, efficient lighting, avoid risky shortcuts and understand confusing bills or letters. Small habits add up to a noticeable difference over a whole winter.
A unique solution for families this winter
CareStaff24 is introducing a simple way to support older adults through the toughest months of the year: our Winter Wellbeing Support Plan.
This is designed to give families peace of mind and older adults the right balance of safety, warmth and independence. It can include:
- a personalised winter home check
- support with safe heating routines
- warm, budget-friendly meal preparation
- companionship visits to reduce loneliness
- wellbeing monitoring and early warning signs
- optional daily or weekly check-ins
- guidance for families on winter safety and support
It’s practical help with a warm, human touch, the kind of support older adults genuinely rely on.
If you’re worried about a loved one, talk to us
A quick conversation could prevent a much bigger problem later in the winter. We’re here for families in Eastbourne, Hastings and the surrounding areas; offering dependable, compassionate homecare when it matters most.
Speak to our team today and find out how we can support your family through the cost of living crisis and the colder months ahead.
Worried About an Older Relative This Winter?
Our Winter Wellbeing Support Plan is designed to keep older adults safe, warm and supported at home during the cost of living crisis. From heating checks and warm meals to regular companionship visits, CareStaff24 is here to help.
Eastbourne & Hastings · Fast response · Trusted local homecare
Kate is an enthusiastic and dedicated leader with extensive experience in recruitment and operations management. As Director of CareStaff24, she oversees every aspect of the organisation, ensuring that both carers and clients feel valued and supported.