Supporting older adults to thrive through winter
Published: July 10, 2025
Nathan Davis
Pou Whakahaere ā Rohe (General Manager: Te Waipounamu)
It’s essential to ensure that older adults, especially those with mental health needs, stay healthy and connected. This is even more important in winter. Shorter and colder days bring an increased risk of sickness, isolation, and reduced physical activity.
There are plenty of things you, alongside Pathways’ kaimahi, can do to support the older people in your lives to stay well:
Create opportunities to stay connected
Regular visits from whānau can make a big difference. Time spent socialising helps boost confidence and shows that you care. Visits are also an opportunity to check their environment is warm and dry during the winter months. Social and community groups can provide social interaction when you can’t be there.
Establish daily routines
Keeping a consistent daily schedule can help combat sleep disturbances. You can work alongside Pathways’ kaimahi to encourage regular wake-up times, meals, and activities to help provide structure and stability. Even brief exposure to natural light can help improve mood and energy levels. Take short walks during the day or if going outside isn’t possible, spend time by windows with plenty of sunlight.
Challenge the brain
Engaging in social and brain-challenging activities helps maintain cognitive function and reduces the impact of dementia. Encourage participation in community activities, puzzles, and games to keep the mind active and healthy.
Encourage good physical health and nutrition
Winter is a good time to book visits to the GP and dentist along with hearing, vision and foot specialists. Our clinical staff can support with these. Nutritious meals also help maintain strength and immune function.
You can contact your Pathways’ team to learn about groups near your older person and encourage your loved one to join in.
— This story was first featured in Harikoa magazine (issue 1, 2025).
