As the winter season approaches, I’d like to warmly welcome you to our winter newsletter. While this time of year brings the joy of the festive season, we know it can also present challenges, particularly for seniors and their families.
Colder weather and shorter days can affect daily routines, and our goal at Home Instead Central Hampshire is to ensure that your loved ones remain safe, comfortable and well-cared for during the winter months.
Our team is dedicated to providing personalised care that meets the unique needs of each individual. Winter often calls for a little extra support, whether it's staying warm, preventing winterrelated falls, or maintaining social connections during periods of isolation
Our Care Professionals are here to assist with daily tasks such as meal preparation, medication reminders, and mobility support, ensuring that you or your loved one can continue to enjoy life with confidence and peace of mind.
In this edition, we’ve included tips on winter safety, health, and well-being, along with ways to make the most of the colder months. We hope you find these resources helpful as you navigate the season
If you need any additional care, support, or companionship this winter, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Your comfort and safety are always our top priorities.
Wishing you a warm and joyful winter season!
Melissa Burnett
Contents:
Page 1/2: Introducing Care and our Services
Page 3: A Warming Winter Recipe
Page 4: Managing Loneliness this Winter
Page 5: Community Groups & Events
Page 6: Indoor Activities to Enjoy This winter
Page 7: Coping with (SAD) During Winter
Page 8: Christmas Word Search
Page 9: Respite Care & Riddles
Page 10/11: Dates for your Diary
Page 13: Celebrating the Holidays Around the World
Page 14: What Makes us Different?
Page 15: Puzzle Answers
Introducing Care & our Services
Care comes in many forms, and what makes us one of the leading providers of care in our community is how we approach the conversation. At Home Instead our goal is to support our clients living independently within their own homes. You or a loved one may need to introduce care as a result of decreased mobility, a diagnosis of Alzheimer's or dementia, or simply just need some additional support and companionship.
1
Home Help
Our Home Help services include general household activities such as laundry, dusting, vacuuming, putting the bins out or ironing. Your Home Instead Care Professional will be matched to you so you can be confident that whatever help you need around the home, they will take the time to get to know just how you want it to be. Whatever your Home Help needs, your Care Professional will be able to do as little or as much as you want them to. We understand that for many people, being able to take care of your own home makes a difference to overall well-being.
Companionship
2
Loneliness can have serious effects on a person’s health and Home Instead aims to prevent social isolation by providing companionship care at home. Many people we support simply want company and conversation, whether they live alone and may not see family and friends as often as they would like, they just want a companion when going out to appointments or to do the shopping. Having care at home can be a big adjustment and starting with a companionship service means that if a time comes when you need extra help, there is already someone you know and trust to provide care and support.
3
Personal Care
At Home Instead, our Personal Care services ensure that care and support is provided with dignity and a commitment to enable you or your loved one to be independent as possible. We understand that having support with daily living tasks such as bathing or dressing can make a difference in your quality of life, helping you to stay happy at home. We understand that everyone is unique, so we ensure that support with personal care is tailored to you. We will work with you or your loved one to put together a detailed person-centred plan that our Care Professionals will follow, so that you or your loved one gets the care and support needed, in the way that you want it.
For more information about our services or to book a free care consultation please contact us on 01962 736 681 or email us on hants@homeinstead.co.uk
Dementia Care 4
One in six adults over 80 in the UK lives with dementia. Studies highlight the benefits of staying at home for those with dementia. We understand the value of a routine and a dependable team of Care Professionals in ensuring your loved ones are safe and comfortable. We also recognise that caring for someone with dementia affects the whole family, so our Care Professionals are trained to support both the individual and their family. Over 70% of our carers have completed City & Guilds assured dementia training certification through us.
Specialist Training
5
Our Care Professionals have also undertaken specialist training to help our clients remain safely at home for as long as possible, this includes observing and monitoring blood pressure, body temperature, weight, oxygen levels and breathing. Urine infections are common in older people and they can cause disorientation and confusion and, sometimes, lead to falls. Our Care Professionals have been trained in urinalysis and so can help identify infections as soon as they arise. Managing wound care by changing simple dressings and working alongside a trained nurse in accordance with a joint care plan is another service offered by our care professionals.
6
Live-in Care
Live-in care is a specialised caregiving service where a trained professional resides with a client in their own home, providing continuous, round-the-clock support. This approach offers the benefit of consistent care, fostering a strong bond between the caregiver and the client. Live-in caregivers assist with personal care, medication management, meal preparation, housekeeping, transportation, and companionship Their presence ensures personalised attention tailored to the client’s needs and preferences, enhancing dignity and respect in the caregiving relationship.
Nail Care
7
Our comprehensive Nail Care services, now available right in the comfort of your home. Enjoy thorough nail cutting, filing, and shaping for both toes and fingers. Our service includes the removal of existing polish and the application of new polish (polish and remover provided by you). All necessary tools are supplied, and trained professionals deliver meticulous, personalised care. Regular nail care helps prevent issues like ingrown nails and infections, enhancing overall well-being and mobility. Each session also includes a relaxing hand or foot massage.
For more information about our services or to book a free care consultation please contact us on 01962 736 681 or email us on hants@homeinstead.co.uk
Warming Winter Recipe
Ingredients:
3 large leeks
4 medium potatoes
1 onion
2 cloves garlic
4 cups vegetable or chicken stock
1 cup milk or cream (optional)
2 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1.
Clean the leeks and slice. Peel and chop the potatoes, onion and garlic.
2.
In a large pot, add the butter over a medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant.
3.
Add the leeks and cook for another 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften. Then, add the potatoes and stir to combine.
Pour in stock, bring to a boil, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
4. Once the vegetables are soft blend the soup until smooth.
5. Stir in milk or cream (optional), season, and serve with garnish or bread. 6.
In
Can you solve these popular dinner and dessert anagrams? ICED DRIP GUN (4,7) 1. FIND HIS CHAPS (4,3,4) 2. SCRUB HOST SON (3,5,4) 3. HER SHEEP DIPS (9,3) 4. SNUG SHRIMP ADDICT (9,7) 5. BAD MAN GNASHERS (7,3,4) 6. SKEPTIC TODD (7,4) 7. FILTER (6) 8. NAKED BASQUE BULB (6,3,6) 9. DRAG IN UPTURNED BAD DEBT (5,3,6,7) 10.
Managing Loneliness this Winter
The transition from bright, long summer days to darker, shorter winter days can significantly impact mental health, especially for those living alone or with limited social interactions.
The Impact of Shorter Days and Cooler Weather
Winter’s reduced daylight and cooler temperatures can limit outdoor activities and social interactions. This decrease in sunlight may lead to lower mood and energy levels, exacerbating loneliness. Additionally, colder weather can make it more difficult to engage in physical activities or leave home, further intensifying feelings of isolation
Ways to combat Loneliness
Maintain regular social interaction with friends and family through phone calls, video chats or inperson visits.
Enquire about local groups and events you could join, if you are tech savvy these could include online groups such as ‘virtual bookclubs’ but remember to stay alert for scammers online, and never give out personal information.
3.
Explore new hobbies or revisit old ones like reading, crafting, or gardening. Participating in these activities can offer mental stimulation and a sense of accomplishment, helping to alleviate loneliness.
4 Addressing loneliness in autumn involves creating opportunities for social interaction, engaging in enjoyable activities, and leveraging companionship services By considering these approaches seniors can navigate the season with greater connection and
Our companionship services offer a valuable solution to combat loneliness Our trained Care Professionals provide regular, personalised interactions, assisting with daily tasks and offering emotional support. This consistent presence helps reduce isolation and improves overall well-being.
The Benefits of Companionship Services
1. Emotional Support
Companionship services provide crucial emotional support, helping seniors navigate the challenges of autumn and winter. A caring presence can improve mood and mental health.
2. Increased Engagement
Companions help seniors stay involved with hobbies and interests, making activities more enjoyable and stimulating, which enhances overall well-being.
3. Enhanced Quality of Life
Regular interaction with a compassionate companion offers a sense of purpose and belonging, making daily experiences more meaningful and less isolating.
If you are interested in learning more about our companionship services and how they can benefit you or your loved one, please get in touch with us. We would be happy to provide more information and discuss how we can support your needs during the autumn and winter seasons.
Community Groups & Events
Morning Matinee Cinema
We have teamed up with the Everyman Cinema Winchester to offer dementia friendly and over 60s morning matinee screenings of both classic and new movies in a dementia-friendly environment.
Free to attend with no pre-booking required, the lights are left on and free teas and popcorn are provided. The screening takes place on the first Wednesday of the month. Please take advantage of the opportunity and enjoy a free movie!
This is located at the Everyman Winchester, Southgate St, Winchester SO23 9EG
Singing for the Brain
Singing for the Brain offers a supportive community where individuals living with dementia can engage in familiar melodies, fostering a sense of belonging and joy. Alongside cherished songs, participants benefit from tailored vocal exercises designed to stimulate cognitive functions and enhance overall mental wellness.
Moreover, by providing these sessions free of charge, Singing for the Brain ensures accessibility and inclusivity for all, empowering individuals to experience the profound positive impact firsthand. The overwhelmingly positive feedback, with 100% of attendees reporting improvements in their lives.
Be a Santa to a Senior
This year, we are excited to participate in the "Be a Santa to a Senior" program for XX. Many residents at XX may not have family nearby, so this is a wonderful way to bring some extra holiday cheer into their lives.
We are raising gifts for the seniors, aiming to make their season a little brighter. If you would like to be involved, please call our office for more details. Your thoughtful contributions will go directly to the residents, ensuring they receive something special this year. Together, let’s make a difference and show our seniors that they are cherished during this festive time!
Indoor Activities to Enjoy This winter
As the colder months settle in, staying active and engaged becomes even more important. Winter is the perfect time to explore new hobbies, connect with loved ones, and focus on activities that nurture your mind and body from the comfort of indoors. Here are some enjoyable indoor activities to keep you warm and entertained this winter:
Join a Crafting Workshop
Whether it’s knitting, painting, or pottery, crafting workshops offer a great way to learn new skills while creating something unique. Many local community centres or online platforms offer virtual classes, making it easy to pick up a new hobby from the comfort of your home.
Try Indoor Gardening
Who says you can’t enjoy nature during winter? Indoor gardening is a relaxing and rewarding activity Start small with easy-to-maintain plants like herbs, succulents, or even potted flowers
It’s a lovely way to bring a bit of greenery and life to your space, and you can enjoy fresh herbs for cooking!
Host a Game Night
Gather friends or family members for a cosy night of board games, cards, or puzzles Game nights are a fun way to bond and spend quality time together. With plenty of classic games to choose from, you can make this a regular weekly tradition during the winter months.
Learn a New Recipe
Winter is the ideal time to try cooking or baking something new Whether it’s mastering a classic comfort food or experimenting with international cuisine, cooking can be a rewarding indoor activity. You could even host virtual cooking nights with friends, sharing recipes and enjoying the fruits of your labour together.
By embracing these indoor activities, you can make the most of the winter season, staying engaged, creative, and connected.
Coping with (SAD) During Winter
As the colder months arrive and daylight hours shorten, many people experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD is a type of depression that typically occurs in autumn and winter, causing low energy, mood swings, and fatigue. While this seasonal change can be challenging, there are ways to manage SAD and feel more positive during the winter months.
Maximise Natural Light – Reduced sunlight plays a major role in SAD. Make an effort to get outside during the day, even when it’s cloudy, and sit near windows to soak up natural light. 1.
Light Therapy – Light therapy boxes mimic sunlight and help regulate mood and sleep patterns. Using one in the morning can significantly improve symptoms. 2.
3.
Stay Active – Regular exercise, like walking or yoga, can boost endorphins and combat fatigue. Even gentle movement can lift your spirits.
4.
Stay Social – Social isolation can worsen SAD symptoms. Keep in touch with family, friends, or support groups to maintain connections.
At Home Instead Central Hampshire, we understand the impact of SAD, especially for older adults. As a home care company, we’re here to offer support—whether through companionship, assistance with daily activities, or simply being there when you need it most.
If you or a loved one is struggling with SAD, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor for advice. If you're concerned about someone’s well-being this winter, reach out to us for personalised care, call us today on 01962 736681 your well-being is our priority.
CAN YOU DRAW A LINE AND MATCH THE CHRISTMAS GIFT WITH THE DAY NUMBER FROM THE POPULAR SONG?
Drummers drumming
Ladies dancing
Maids a-milking
Golden rings
Partridge in a pear tree
Geese a-laying
Calling birds
Turtle doves
French hens
lPipers piping ords a-leaping
Swans a-swimming
FIND THE
Over the past several years, I have had the privilege of using Home Instead's services. Their commitment to excellence has consistently exceeded my expectations. They are not just a care provider; they have become an integral part of my sister's life, delivering compassionate, reliable, and professional care that has greatly improved her quality of life. From the beginning, their personalised approach stood out. The initial assessment was thorough, allowing them to develop a customised care plan tailored to our needs. The caregivers are exceptional, compassionate, genuinely invested in my sister's well-being, and often become trusted companions Home Instead's reliability is impressive We've never been left without care, and the management and support team is highly organised, with clear communication about any schedule changes In conclusion, Home Instead has provided exceptional service, profoundly impacting my sister's life. I wholeheartedly recommend them.
Review from D P (Brother of Client)
CANDY CANE CAROLS CHRISTMAS DECEMBER ELVES GINGERBREAD JINGLE HOLLY LIGHTS MERRY NOTH POLE ORNAMENTS PRESENTS REINDEER SANTA SLEIGH STOCKING TREE WINTER WREATH
Our Services
At Home Instead Central Hampshire, we are committed to delivering compassionate and personalised home care services designed to support seniors in maintaining their independence, dignity, and comfort while remaining in the familiarity of their own homes.
Our highly trained and experienced Care Professionals offer a broad range of services tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual. These include personal care, companionship, medication management and housekeeping . We also specialise in live-in care and respite care for family caregivers who need a break, as well as dementia care.
At Home Instead Central Hampshire, we recognise that every client is unique, and we work closely with families to develop personalised care plans that offer the right balance of support. Whether your loved one needs a few hours of assistance each week or full-time care, we are here to help.
If you or a loved one could benefit from our home care services, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. You can contact us at 01962 736681 or via email at hants@homeinstead.co.uk.
We are always here to support you and your family.
Respite Care: How We Can Help
Respite care is a temporary service designed to give family caregivers a much-needed break while ensuring their loved ones receive the highest quality care. It’s not only for caregivers needing rest, but also for individuals recovering from a fall or coming out of the hospital, who may need extra support for a few weeks.
During these short-term periods, respite care can provide assistance with personal care, mobility, meal preparation, and companionship, helping your loved one regain their strength and confidence while they recover.
At Home Instead Central Hampshire, we offer tailored respite care for as long as needed—whether it’s just a few hours, a day, or longer-term live-in support. Our dedicated carers ensure your loved one is comfortable and well-supported while you take time for yourself.
If you'd like to learn more about how we can help, get in touch with us today to explore our respite care services and how we can support you and your family.
For more information about our services or to book a free care consultation please contact us on 01962 736 681 or email us at hants@homeinstead.co.uk
The care, attention, support and kindness shown by my mother's Home Instead carers is exceptional. It gives great peace of mind. They are reliable and always make her feel comfortable. The office team are equally excellent, always responding quickly, ensuring she has the support she needs and with excellent care and attention. I know a number of people who have used Home Instead in different locations and all say the same! Excellent!
Jane L (Daughter of Client)
Riddles
We’ve written three riddles, can you find the answers?
I speak without a mouth and hear without ears. I have no body, but I come alive with wind. What am I?
The more you take, the more you leave behind. What am I?
I’m tall when I’m young, and I’m short when I’m old. What am I?
Date
Dates for your Diary
December 4th Doors open 10:15, film starts 10:45
December 5th 10:30am -11:30am
December 6th 11am12noon
December 11th
December 12th
December 19th 11am12noon
December 20th 11am12noon
January 8th 2pm - 3pm
Santa Clause” Morning Matinee
SO21 2FL
January 10th 11am12noon
For The Brain
Gregory's Church Hall, Grange Rd, Alresford SO24 9HB
Dates for your Diary
January 22nd 2pm - 3pm
For The Brain
January 23rd 10:30am -11:30am Singing For The Brain
January 24th 11am12noon Singing For The Brain
January 30th 10:30am -11:30am Singing For The Brain
Gregory's Church Hall, Grange Rd, Alresford SO24 9HB
House Care Home, 18-24
Rd, Eastleigh SO50 9DG
February 5th Doors open 10:15, film starts 10:45 “TBC” Morning Matinee
Winchester, Southgate St, Winchester SO23 9EG
February 5th 2pm - 3pm Singing For The Brain St Gregory's Church Hall, Grange Rd, Alresford SO24 9HB
February 7th 11am12noon Singing For The Brain
February 6th 10:30am -11:30am Singing For The Brain
Rd, Eastleigh SO50 9DG
February 13th 10:30am -11:30am Singing For The Brain Brendoncare, Otterbourne Hill, Otterbourne, Winchester SO21 2FL
February 19th 2pm - 3pm Singing For The Brain St Gregory's Church Hall, Grange Rd, Alresford SO24 9HB
February 20th 10:30am -11:30am Singing For The Brain
Singing For The Brain Brendoncare, Otterbourne Hill, Otterbourne, Winchester SO21 2FL
Join our Team
Home Instead Central Hampshire is an awardwinning home care company, helping clients live comfortably and independently at home. What makes us stand out:
Up to £13.00 per hour (double on bank holidays)
35p per mile for mileage
DBS paid by us
No uniforms
Family-owned with 24/7 on-call support
Client-carer matches based on personality/interests
Minimum 1-hour visits with 15 minutes travel time between
Full training, funded diplomas, and accredited dementia training
Paid holidays, company pension, referral bonuses, and sick pay (if eligible)
Curious about care and interested in learning more about joining our team? Please contact us here:
01962 736681
hants@homeinstead.co.uk
www.homeinstead.co.uk/centralhampshire
Imagine helping someone get ready to meet their family for a lunch outing, supporting them at the shop so they can stay independent, holding their hand when they need a little extra support, and sharing a laugh that brightens their day.
That’s what being a Care Professional with us is all about.
"Great group to work for, very supportive of clients and staff, operating to high standards and with a strong positive company culture. Would recommend to potential clients and potential employees.
Ian, CareProfessional
Celebrating the Holidays Around the World: Fun Facts and Traditions
The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness, and celebration. Whilst many of us have our own cherished traditions, the ways people celebrate the holidays can vary greatly around the world. learning about holiday traditions from different cultures can open up new ways to celebrate, reminisce, and connect. Here are some ways that counties celebrate this time of year:
The Philippines: Giant Lantern Festival:
When: December
What it Celebrates: In the Philippines, the Giant Lantern Festival is a major event leading up to Christmas. It features enormous, intricately designed lanterns, sometimes up to 20 feet in diameter, that symbolize the Star of Bethlehem. This festival draws crowds from all over to enjoy the dazzling displays.
Italy: La Befana:
When: January 5-6
What it Celebrates: In Italy, children eagerly await a visit from La Befana, an old woman who delivers presents on the night of January 5th. According to legend, she missed the Wise Men on their journey to see baby Jesus and now spends her time delivering gifts to children in their place.
Sweden: St. Lucia Day:
When: December 13
What it Celebrates: St. Lucia Day is a Swedish festival of light that celebrates Saint Lucia, a young Christian martyr. On this day, the eldest daughter in each family dresses in a white robe with a red sash and a wreath of candles on her head. She leads a procession and serves saffron buns and coffee to the family.
Japan: Christmas Eve with KFC:
When: December 24
What it Celebrates: While Christmas is not a national holiday in Japan, many families celebrate by ordering Kentucky Fried Chicken! This unusual tradition began in the 1970s after a successful marketing campaign from KFC. Now, it’s common to preorder KFC weeks in advance to enjoy it on Christmas Eve.
Mexico: Las Posadas:
When: December 16-24
What it Celebrates: Las Posadas is a nine-day celebration leading up to Christmas, commemorating Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter. During this time, families and communities reenact their journey with nightly processions, ending at different homes where participants sing, pray, and enjoy festive treats like tamales and piñatas.
Ethiopia: Ganna:
When: January 7
What it Celebrates: Christmas in Ethiopia, known as Ganna, is celebrated on January 7 due to the use of the Julian calendar by the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. It’s a solemn and spiritual holiday, with early morning church services and a focus on faith. Traditional foods like injera (a flatbread) and stews are enjoyed.
What Makes Us Different
At Home Instead Central Hampshire someone’s needs—it’s about making every day a little brighter, a little easier, and a lot more joyful. Our mission is to provide care that allows our clients to live independently and comfortably in their own homes, all while ensuring they feel valued, respected, and supported every step of the way.
We offer a wide range of services to meet the unique needs of each client, whether it’s helping them maintain their independence or simply being a friendly presence in their day. From where we share stories, a cup of tea, and laughter together—to shopping assistance, our goal is to help our clients enjoy life to the fullest. Need help with preparation? We’ll make sure you have delicious, nutritious meals ready to enjoy, tailored to your tastes and preferences.
Our approach is centred on making sure that our clients feel truly connected and cared for, especially when they need a little extra support. Our personal care services ensure dignity and respect in all aspects of daily life, from assistance with dressing to help with bathing and grooming. And when it comes to medication support, we’re there to make sure that everything is taken at the right time, giving both clients and their families peace of mind. For those who need a bit more help, our live-in care and respite live-in care services mean that a compassionate carer is there day and night.
Whether it’s for a temporary period while a family caregiver takes a well-earned break, or as a long-term solution, we’re dedicated to ensuring that our clients receive the round-the-clock care they deserve— while staying in the comfort of their own homes. This type of care offers reassurance, not just for clients, but for their loved ones as well, knowing that someone is always there to lend a hand.
For more information about our services or to book a free care consultation please contact us on 01962 736 681 or email us at hants@homeinstead.co.uk
What year was the Magna Carta signed? 1215
When did the American Civil War begin? 1861
In which year did the French Revolution start? 1789
What year did the September 11 attacks occur? 2001
When was the United Nations founded? 1945
D DRIP GUN: RICE PUDDING
D HIS CHAPS: FISH AND CHIPS
UB HOST SON: HOT CROSS BUNS
R SHEEP DIPS: SHEPHERDS PIE
UG SHRIMP ADDICT: CHRISTMAS PUDDING
D MAN GNASHERS: BANGERS AND MASH
PTIC TODD: SPOTTED DICK
TER: TRIFLE
KED BASQUE BULB: BUBBLE AND SQUEAK
AG IN UPTURNED BAD DEBT: BREAD AND BUTTER
DDING
Riddles
m tall when I’m young, and I’m short when I’m old. hat am I? A Candle
he more you take, the more you leave behind. hat am I? Footsteps
speak without a mouth and hear without ears. I ave no body, but I come alive with wind. What am An Echo
