No one should feel alone this winter
As the evenings draw in and the weather turns colder, the days can feel long and quiet. Friendly companionship and Home Care support can help your loved one stay safe, warm and connected at home.
Friendly advice from your local Alina Homecare team, with no obligation.
Shorter days can mean longer, lonelier evenings
For many older adults living at home, winter brings fewer visitors, fewer trips out and more time on their own. Over a few months, that can take a real toll on how they feel.
Dark by teatime
When it’s dark before 5pm, going out feels harder and the evening stretches ahead. Less daylight can also affect mood, sleep and energy.
Cold and icy weather
Wet pavements and cold snaps keep people indoors. Clubs, coffee mornings and visits to friends often fall away until spring.
Fewer conversations
A day can pass without a proper chat with anyone. Over time, loneliness can affect wellbeing, appetite and confidence at home.
Is your loved one finding winter hard?
Changes can be gradual and easy to miss, especially if you don’t live nearby. When you next call or visit, it’s worth keeping an eye out for a few things.
If you notice any of these, a conversation with us is a good first step.
Start a conversation- They seem quieter or less interested in things they usually enjoy
- They’re not eating as well, or the fridge is emptier than usual
- The home feels cold, or the heating isn’t being used
- They’ve stopped going out or seeing friends
- They’re sleeping more in the day or struggling to sleep at night
- They’re missing medication, appointments or calls
The right support helps loved ones stay safe, healthy and connected at home
Our Carers visit at times that suit, from a short visit a few times a week to daily support or Live-in Care. Every plan is built around the person, their routines and what matters to them.
Peace of mind, wherever you are
With your loved one’s permission, our app lets you follow their care in real time, so you can see how they’re getting on even when you can’t be there.
- See when their Carer arrives and leaves
- Read notes from each visit as they’re written
- Stay in the loop if you live further away
Access is only shared with the people your loved one chooses.
Companionship
A friendly face and a proper conversation. Time for a cup of tea, a game of cards, old photos or a favourite programme together.
A warm, safe home
Checking the heating is on, curtains are drawn at dusk, paths are clear and everything they need is within easy reach before the evening.
Hot meals and drinks
Help preparing nourishing meals and warm drinks, and keeping the cupboards stocked through the colder months.
Getting out and about
Support to keep up the things they love, whether that’s a trip to the shops, a lunch club, church or a walk on a bright winter day.
Personal Care & medication
Gentle, respectful assistance with washing, dressing and medication reminders, ensuring the day starts and ends well.
Live-in Care
For those who need more comprehensive support, a Carer lives in their home so someone is there day and night, all winter long.
What a visit from one of our Carers might look like
Every visit is different, because every person is different. Here’s how a winter afternoon visit could go.
Arriving before dark
A warm hello and a chance to catch up on how they’re feeling today.
A hot meal and a chat
Cooking something warming together and sitting down for a proper conversation.
Warm and safe
Heating checked, curtains drawn, lamps on and the phone within reach.
Settled for the evening
They’re comfortable, connected and know when we’ll next be back.
Small things that make a big difference
Whether or not your loved one has care in place, these simple steps can help them feel better through the darker months.
Call at the same time each day
A regular call gives them something to look forward to, especially in the early evening when days can feel longest.
Keep the home warm
Manage the heating remotely via an app, if possible. Check they have warm layers and a blanket to hand.
Make the most of daylight
Open the curtains early, sit near a window and plan trips out for the middle of the day when it’s lightest.
Plan things to look forward to
A visit, a phone call with the grandchildren or a trip out marked on the calendar can lift the whole week.
You don’t have to face winter alone
Arranging support with Alina Homecare is simple, and we’ll guide you through every step.
Get in touch
Call us or send an enquiry. We’ll listen to what’s happening and talk you through the support options.
Meet your local team
We’ll arrange a visit to their home to get to know them, their routines and what matters most to them.
Care that fits
We’ll introduce a Carer who suits them, with visits planned around their day and adjusted as needs change.
Talk to us about support this winter
Tell us a little about your loved one and your local Alina Homecare team will be in touch to talk through the options. There’s no obligation.
- Send your enquiry using the form
- Your local team gives you a call
- We arrange a visit to their home
Prefer to talk now?
Call 0808 164 5819Your questions answered
What does companionship care involve?
A Carer spends time with your loved one doing the things they enjoy, from a chat over a cup of tea to hobbies, games, a walk or a trip out. Companionship can also include help around the home, like preparing meals or light housework.
How often can visits happen?
It’s completely up to you and them. Some people have a short visit a few times a week, others have daily visits, and some choose Live-in Care so a Carer is in their home around the clock.
My loved one doesn’t think they need help. What can I do?
That’s very common. Many families start with a few companionship visits, which can feel less like “care” and more like a friendly visitor. We’re happy to talk it through with you and with them.
How quickly can support start?
Get in touch with your local branch and they’ll talk you through availability in your area. If things are urgent, let us know when you call.
Do you cover my area?
Alina Homecare has branches across the South of England. You can find your nearest branch or call us on 0808 164 5819.
No one should feel alone this winter
Contact us to discuss support options for your loved one. Our friendly team is here to help.