Winter can be challenging for many of us, but if you are caring for someone else, it can bring a few extra worries.
Will the person you care for stay warm enough? What happens if either of you becomes ill? Are prescriptions up to date? And, just as importantly, how are you going to look after yourself?
A little preparation now can make the colder months feel much more manageable.
1. Think about winter vaccinations
One of the simplest things you can do is check whether you and the person you care for are eligible for winter vaccinations.
For winter 2026/27, the NHS says that people who are the main carer for an older or disabled person, or who receive Carer’s Allowance, are eligible for a free flu vaccination.
Eligibility for other vaccinations, including COVID-19 and RSV, depends on factors such as age and health conditions. Check the current NHS guidance rather than assuming eligibility is the same for everybody.
2. Have a plan for illness or emergencies
It is worth asking yourself a simple question:
“If I became ill tomorrow, who could step in?”
You don’t need an elaborate emergency plan. Start by writing down important telephone numbers, medication information, details of the person’s usual routine and who should be contacted in an emergency.
Make sure someone you trust knows where this information is kept.
3. Check medicines and prescriptions
If you or the person you support takes regular medication, get into the habit of checking supplies before weekends, holidays and periods of particularly bad weather.
Keep the contact details for your GP surgery and pharmacy somewhere accessible.
4. Keep warm and stay active
Cold weather can make some existing health problems worse, and the NHS highlights older people and people with conditions including heart disease, kidney disease, COPD, asthma and diabetes as being at greater risk during winter.
Think about simple practical measures such as warm clothing, suitable bedding and reducing draughts.
Movement matters too. Guidance in Advice-Guide-Winterwise_0 notes that staying active can help people feel warmer and can benefit sleep, appetite and mood.
5. Don’t forget food and drink
Caring can make it surprisingly easy to skip meals.
Having a few simple meals in the freezer or cupboard can be helpful for days when you’re tired, unwell or unable to get to the shops. Encourage the person you care for to eat regularly and drink enough, and remember to do the same yourself.
6. Look after the carer, too
Perhaps the most important winter preparation is recognising that your health matters as well.
Try to maintain contact with friends, family, your carers’ organisation or other sources of support. Darker days and spending more time at home can increase feelings of isolation.
And don’t wait until you reach crisis point before asking for help.
Make your winter checklist
Before winter really takes hold, spend 20 minutes reviewing:
- vaccinations
- prescriptions and medication
- emergency contacts
- heating and keeping warm
- food supplies
- arrangements if you become unwell
- your own physical and emotional wellbeing.
Caring is demanding at any time of year. Preparing for winter won’t prevent every problem, but a few small steps now can make you and the person you care for safer, healthier and better prepared for the months ahead.
Most importantly, remember that looking after yourself isn’t taking time away from caring. It’s part of being able to continue to care.