
Winter can present challenges, especially for the elderly, but it also provides great opportunities to connect with your live-in care client and create lasting memories.
Snowy days don't have to mean slow or idle days for live-in carers and their live-in care clients.
Here at Access Care, with over 30 years of experience supporting families and live-in carers all over the UK, we understand that compassionate, engaging live-in care means more than just meeting a client’s basic needs.
Whether you are caring for an elderly live-in care client who relives their favourite winter memories or someone looking for fun ways to stay active indoors, snowy days give you a chance to create some meaningful moments.
In our next Access Care guide we will walk you through our most popular wintry day activities - all of which are cosy, creative, and in some instances active activities, to try with your live-in care client when the snow blankets the outside world.
Why Snowy Days Present Unique Opportunities
Winter offers a natural shift to slow down, reflect, and get creative.
Snowy days, in particular, can be a great time to naturally strengthen the connection between live-in carers and their clients by creating opportunities for shared experiences.
For live-in carers who are unfamiliar with navigating snowy days, we’ll also touch on practical tips to keep your live-in care client comfortable, safe, and engaged as you explore these activities.
Indoor Activities to Warm Up Snowy Days
Read on to find out more about our tried and tested snowy day live-in care client and carer activities, all of these activities have proven very popular with both our clients and their live-in carers on snowy days:
1. Baking or Cooking Together
Nothing says cosy like the aroma of delicious baked goods or a hearty meal on a freezing cold day. Why not plan a cooking session based on your live-in care client’s food preferences or you could even dig up an old family recipe they’d love to recreate.
Skill Level: Adjust the level of participation based on your live-in care client's baking/cooking ability. They might help stir ingredients or simply share stories about recipes from their past.
Recipe Suggestions: Gingerbread biscuits, shepherd’s pie, scones, or even a steaming pot of tasty soup can be both fun and rewarding to prepare.
Baking or cooking with your live-in care client not only keeps them busy but also promotes a sense of accomplishment and warmth - both literally and figuratively!
2. Arts & Crafts
Winter is a really great time to explore creative projects. Whether your live-in care client loves painting, knitting, or creating christmas decorations, this is a lovely and often therapeutic way to pass the time.
Simple Craft Ideas: Help your live-in care client to create handmade cards, knit scarves, or even try finger-painting for a fun twist.
Equipment Tip: Be sure to be mindful of any physical limitations and choose easy-to-handle tools.
Remember, art can be about the process of creating and not just the end result.
3. Journal or Scrapbook Winter Memories
For elderly live-in care clients, reflecting on their life experiences, especially special winter memories, can be both an enjoyable and enriching task. Why not help your live-in care client to create a scrapbook or write in a journal?
Prompts to Get Started: “What’s the snowiest winter you remember?” or “What were your family’s holiday traditions?”
Materials Needed: Photos, old greeting cards, craft paper, and adhesive.
These types of projects help to preserve memories and encourage meaningful conversations with your live-in care client.
4. Puzzles and Board Games
Engage in a classic winter-day pastime with puzzles or board games that are suited to your live-in care client’s interests. Games not only enhance focus and concentration but also help to create a sense of teamwork and fun.
Top Recommendations: Try Scrabble, dominoes, or large-piece puzzles for easier handling.
Remember that it is always a good idea to keep the competitive spirit lighthearted.
5. Indoor Gardening
Bring a little green into your live-in care client’s day with some indoor gardening. Snowy days don’t have to keep you disconnected from nature!
Planting Suggestions: Pot a new plant together with your live-in care client or propagate existing ones.
Bonus Tip: Try creating seasonal herb gardens like parsley or thyme that can later be used for cooking. Yum!
This activity brings life and vitality to cold days indoors.
Outdoor Adventures (With Safety in Mind)
Though going out in winter weather can be daunting, (and some days it shouldn’t even be attempted!), on milder and less icy days, don’t completely discount the joy of outdoor activities if your live-in care client is able and the conditions are safe.
A Winter Walk
If there isn’t any ice or snow about, and the pavements are clear and gritted, a leisurely winter walk with your live-in care client can be an invigorating activity.
Benefits: Fresh air boosts mood and energy while providing gentle exercise.
Dress Warmly: Hats, gloves, scarves, and warm coats are a must - always be extra cautious about slippery areas.
A short walk through the garden or a local park can be a treat for the senses. Snow Fun in the Garden
If heading out isn’t possible but your live-in care client enjoys the view, you could consider taking part in activities that you can bring to them, like building a small snowman just outside their window. They can direct or watch while sipping a warm drink.
Bird Watching or Feeding
Use the snowy outdoors to connect with nature.
Get some winter bird feed and fill a feeder outside your live-in care window.
Watch as birds visit the garden, taking time to discuss species or simply enjoy their presence.
This is a peaceful and really calming activity for anyone, perfect for snowy mornings.
Crafting a Bird Feeder
Get creative with your live-in care client by helping them make their own bird feeder.
Use materials like pine cones, peanut butter, and birdseed to craft a simple and eco-friendly feeder.
Alternatively, repurpose household items like old plastic bottles or milk cartons.
Once complete, hang the feeder in view of a window and watch for birds together.
This activity encourages creativity, fine motor skills, and provides the joy of nurturing wildlife.
Planting a Mini Garden
Help your live-in care client create a mini garden inside using small pots.
Choose easy-to-grow plants like herbs, flowers, or succulents.
Teach them how to water, care for, and maintain the plants.
You could also have a go at personalising the pots with paint or decorations for an added layer of creativity.
This hands-on activity helps to promote their nurturing skills, patience, and provides a sense of accomplishment as the plants grow.
Keeping Your Live-In Care Client Safe and Comfortable
Making sure of the safety and comfort of your live-in care client during winter is as essential as ever, especially when getting involved in outdoor or even indoor seasonal activities. Cold weather can pose challenges, such as freezing temperatures, slippery conditions, and other hazards. By being proactive and attentive, you can create an environment that encourages them to have fun and engage without compromising their well-being.
Below we have detailed a few ways in which you can help to ensure your live-in care client remains safe and comfortable:
Dress in Layers Suitable for the Weather
Make sure that your live-in care client is dressed nice and warmly in layers to retain heat while allowing flexibility. Start with moisture-wicking underlayers to keep their skin dry, followed by insulating layers such as fleece or wool, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Don’t forget to give them gloves, a hat, a scarf, thermal socks, and insulated footwear for comprehensive protection against the cold.
Monitor for Signs of Hypothermia or Frostbite
If you do go outside with your live-in care client on a cold wintry day, remember to keep a close eye on symptoms of hypothermia, such as shivering, slurred speech, or confusion. Similarly, check visible extremities like fingers, toes, and ears for signs of frostbite, including redness, numbness, or discoloration. If any symptoms appear, bring your live-in care client indoors immediately to warm up gradually.
Ensure Proper Hydration
Even in cold weather, dehydration can still happen. Provide your live-in care client with plenty of warm drinks. Think drinks like herbal teas, or even soups, as well as hot water with lemon to ensure that your live-in care client remains hydrated. Avoid coffee and other sorts of caffeinated drinks, as they can contribute to dehydration.
Use Non-Slip Accessories
Icy and snowy surfaces are a major concern for all of us during the winter months. Be sure to equip your live-in care client’s footwear with anti-slip shoe grips to help to reduce their risk of slipping if they are going outisde. If they use a cane or walker, you could think about fitting these devices with ice grippers. Make sure that pathways are cleared of snow and ice, and use salt or sand for additional traction.
Limit Time Outdoors
Avoid prolonged exposure to the cold weather, which can increase the risk of weather-related health issues. If you are going outside with your live-in care client, make sure the trips out are short and manageable. Always make sure that your live-in care client has lots of opportunities to come back inside to warm up.
Warm Up Indoor Spaces
Before any outdoor trip outside with your live-in care client, make sure the indoor environment that you will be returning to is warm and comfortable so your live-in care client can return to a cosy space. Use blankets, heating pads, or electric heaters to maintain an inviting atmosphere. Make sure that there is proper ventilation to prevent dry air caused by heating systems.
Offer Warm Refreshments
Providing your live-in care client with warm drinks or snacks can help maintain body temperature. Options like hot cocoa, mulled cider, or a warm bowl of oatmeal can keep your live-in care client feeling cosy and nourished while enjoying the winter ambiance.
Practice Winter Skin Care
Cold, dry air can lead to skin issues such as chapping or irritation. Apply a heavy moisturiser and lip balm to prevent dryness. If your live-in care client will be exposed to sunlight, even during winter, ensure they use sunscreen to protect their skin from harmful UV rays.
Stay Connected with Weather Updates
Check the weather forecast frequently and plan activities around safe conditions. Avoid outdoor plans on days with extreme cold, high winds, or heavy snowfall. For live-in care clients with respiratory concerns, monitor local air quality to prevent inhaling pollutants exacerbated by cold temperatures.
Prepare an Emergency Kit
Whether staying indoors or venturing outside with your live-in care client, have a winter emergency kit readily available. This kit should include things like a first aid kit, blankets, a flashlight, extra gloves, and non-perishable snacks. If you are heading outdoors with your live-in care client, carry a fully charged phone and ensure reliable communication.
By following these sorts of steps that we have listed above, and taking proper precautions, you can ensure your live-in care client’s safety and comfort throughout the winter season while still enjoying all the seasonal experiences that make this time of year special.
Falls Risk in the Icy Weather
On wintry days when ice is prevalent, the risk of falls significantly increases, making it so important to take steps to prevent accidents for your live-in care client.
Make sure that your live-in care client is wearing appropriate footwear with good traction, such as boots equipped with non-slip soles.
Encourage them to use their walking aids like canes with ice tips or walking poles for added stability.
Before you head outdoors, check pathways and driveways for ice, and apply sand or salt to improve grip.
Indoors, keep entryways dry and free of snow to avoid slippery surfaces. Finally, remind your live-in care client to move slowly, stay aware of their surroundings, and use handrails whenever possible to reduce the chance of falls.
Encouraging Social Connection
Video Calls: Utilise technology to stay connected with family and friends. Schedule regular video calls to catch up, share stories, or even enjoy a virtual meal together. Video calls can bridge the gap on wintry days when travelling to see each other may be difficult.
Virtual Games or Activities: Take part in online games or structured activities like virtual trivia nights, puzzle-solving apps, or interactive storytelling sessions. These can provide a fun way to bond and create memorable shared experiences.
Shared Hobbies: Encourage your live-in care client to explore shared hobbies with family or friends, such as knitting, painting, or cooking, via live streaming or message groups. This helps to keep a sense of connection from a distance.
Photo and Memory Sharing: Share pictures, videos, or voice messages with family and friends. These can be treasured updates that spark conversations and keep everyone emotionally connected.
Letter Writing: On particularly cold days, return to the classic art of letter writing or creating handmade cards to send to your live-in care clients loved ones. It adds a personal, heartfelt touch to communication that recipients are sure to appreciate.
Collaborative Playlists: Create and share music playlists with family and friends. Everyone can contribute their favorite tunes, offering a simple yet meaningful way to stay connected and lift spirits during the cold season.
A Snowy Day Recipe - Warm Apple Juice
Nothing beats a warm and cosy drink on a snowy day, and warm apple juice is an excellent choice to lift spirits and keep warm.
Here’s a simple recipe to try:
Ingredients:
4 cups of apple juice (unsweetened works best)
2 cinnamon sticks
4 cloves
1 star anise (optional)
1 orange (sliced)
1-2 tablespoons of honey (optional, to taste)
Instructions:
Combine Ingredients: Pour the apple juice into a medium-sized saucepan. Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and orange slices.
Simmer on Low Heat: Heat the mixture over low heat for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse. Be careful not to bring it to a boil.
Taste and Sweeten: If desired, add honey to sweeten the drink and stir until fully dissolved.
Strain and Serve: Remove the spices and orange slices by straining the liquid. Serve the warm apple juice in mugs, garnished with a slice of orange or a cinnamon stick for added charm.
Perks of This Recipe
One of the great perks of this recipe is its simplicity and the warm, comforting flavour it provides, perfect for chilly days.
Also, an extra bonus is that apple juice is naturally high in vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system and provides a refreshing burst of nutrients in every sip!
Client Testimonial
Why Client Testimonials Mean So Much to Us
Client testimonials are at the heart of what we do because they reflect the experiences and satisfaction of those live-in care clients that we work with.
Hearing directly from our live-in care clients and their loved ones allows us to understand how our offerings have brought joy, comfort, or value to their lives.
Testimonials also build trust and connection, helping others feel confident in choosing our products or live-in care services. Above all, they remind us of our purpose and the positive impact we strive to create for our live-in care clients every day.
"Been using Access Care for our live-in carer for over 7 years and have nothing but great things to say about this company. All the staff are helpful and kind, and the carers we’ve had have all been amazing, going beyond to make life happier and easier for my husband and myself. We’ve had the same carers for over 5 years, and they are wonderful. We’d be lost without them."
— Louise Musselwhite, Client
Opportunities with Access Care
If you are an experienced live-in carer, and you are interested in hearing about potential opportunities with us at Access Care, then we would love to hear from you.
At Access Care we are always looking for compassionate, dedicated, and skilled live-in carers to join our friendly and professional team and make a real difference in the lives of our live-in care clients.
Working with us at Access Care means becoming part of a supportive and professional network where your efforts are truly valued, and your skills are put to meaningful use.
Our live-in carers play such a vital role in ensuring our live-in care clients can remain comfortable and happy in their own homes while receiving the highest quality of personalised care.
Whether you are an experienced live-in carer or just starting out in this rewarding career, we welcome people who are passionate about providing excellent support and companion care.
Get in touch with us today on 01264 319 399 to find out more about the opportunities available and how you can become part of the Access Care team!
The Joy of Sharing Moments
Snowy days create the perfect backdrop for crafting beautiful memories and naturally building strong connections between live-in care clients and their live-in carers.
At Access Care, we’ve seen how small, thoughtful activities can really help to ;lift live-in care client spirits and make a real difference in a live-in care client’s day.
Whether you are having fun baking ginger snaps biscuits, whipping up a hot apple juice, piecing together a puzzle, or simply reminiscing over your live-in care client’s more memorable and treasured winter memories, what matters most is the shared joy.
Everyone Deserves Care from the Heart
At Access Care, we're dedicated to arranging the best tlive-in carers for families all across the UK.
Our 30 years of experience show us that compassionate, meaningful care revolves around genuine connections.
If you are a live-in carer or considering live-in care for your loved ones, we are here to support you every step of the way.
For more information on live-in care, the live-in care services we provide or tips for enriching your caregiving responsibilities, please visit our website at Access Care.
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