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Winter can bring unique challenges for people living with sight loss. Shorter days, colder weather and changes to routines can all affect mobility, confidence and emotional wellbeing. With a few thoughtful adjustments and the right support, it’s possible to stay safe, connected and well throughout the winter months.
Here are some practical winter wellbeing tips to help you navigate the season.
1. Staying Safe Outdoors in Winter
Icy pavements, wet leaves and reduced daylight can make getting around more difficult during winter.
Helpful tips:
- Wear sturdy footwear with good grip to reduce the risk of slipping.
- Use a long cane or mobility aid confidently to detect uneven surfaces.
- Allow extra time when travelling, especially in poor weather or low light.
- If possible, stick to familiar routes and well-maintained paths.
- Consider refresher mobility training to build confidence during seasonal changes.
Rehabilitation and mobility support can help you adapt safely to winter conditions and maintain independence.
2. Keeping Active Indoors
Cold weather can reduce motivation to go out, but staying active is essential for both physical and mental health.
Ways to stay active:
- Try gentle exercises such as chair-based movement, stretching or yoga.
- Use audio-guided workouts or accessible fitness apps.
- Build movement into daily routines, such as light housework or guided walks indoors.
- Join accessible group exercise sessions for motivation and social connection.
Regular movement can improve balance, strength and overall wellbeing during the colder months.
3. Supporting Mental and Emotional Wellbeing
Winter can feel isolating, particularly when social activities slow down and daylight hours are limited.
Support your wellbeing by:
- Staying connected with friends, family or peer support groups.
- Joining social activities, clubs or telephone befriending services.
- Using smart speakers or assistive technology for companionship, music and audiobooks.
- Talking openly about how you’re feeling and seeking support when needed.
Feeling connected and supported is just as important as physical health.
4. Making Your Home Safer and More Comfortable
Creating a well-organised, accessible home environment can help reduce accidents and make winter living easier.
Simple home adjustments:
- Keep walkways clear of clutter to reduce trip hazards.
- Use tactile markers or bump-ons on heating controls and appliances.
- Ensure good lighting in key areas such as entrances, kitchens and bathrooms.
- Maintain consistent furniture layouts to support safe navigation.
Small changes at home can have a big impact on confidence and independence.
5. Using Assistive Technology to Stay Connected
Technology can be especially helpful during winter when getting out may be more challenging.
Useful tools include:
- Voice-controlled devices like Amazon Alexa for reminders, news and entertainment.
- Screen readers and voice assistants on smartphones and tablets.
- Navigation apps and object recognition tools to support daily tasks.
- Audio books, podcasts and radio to stay engaged and informed.
Assistive technology can reduce isolation and make everyday life more manageable.
6. Eating Well and Staying Warm
Good nutrition and warmth are key to staying healthy during colder months.
Winter wellbeing tips:
- Prepare simple, nutritious meals using accessible kitchen tools.
- Batch cook and freeze meals to reduce daily effort.
- Keep warm with layered clothing and accessible heating controls.
- Stay hydrated, even when you don’t feel as thirsty.
- Eating well and staying warm helps maintain energy and resilience throughout winter.
Support Through the Winter and Beyond
Living with sight loss doesn’t mean facing winter alone. With the right support, practical tools and community connections, winter can be a time of comfort, confidence and wellbeing.
At Bradbury Fields, we support people across Merseyside through rehabilitation, mobility training, assistive technology, wellbeing activities and social support. Whether you need practical advice or a friendly connection, we’re here to help.
If you or someone you know would benefit from support this winter, please get in touch with our team to find out more about our services.