What do older adults fear most this winter? Our survey reveals concerns about heating costs, health risks, and loneliness – plus practical advice to help.
Winter brings unique challenges for older adults across the UK; from cold homes and rising heating costs to mobility concerns, an increased risk of illness, and the creeping feeling of isolation. These are real sources of anxiety for millions of people, and this year, these pressures are even more of a concern. With unpredictable energy costs, ongoing worries about the cost of living, and questions around what winter support the elderly can expect, many are facing tough decisions about how to stay safe in the months ahead.
To understand what’s causing older adults to worry this winter, we commissioned a nationwide survey, and the results highlighted some stark realities about the financial, physical, and emotional challenges facing this vulnerable age group.
Here are our key findings at a glance:
We commissioned an independent, nationwide survey of 1,000 UK adults aged 60-99. The survey, conducted via Pollfish, asked respondents about their biggest fears and concerns for the upcoming winter, including financial pressures, mobility challenges, and emotional well-being. The survey was carried out in November 2025.
Trying to stay warm without spending a fortune is weighing heavily on the elderly this year. Between concerns over how to heat homes and the UK continuing to sit on the edge of a recession, financial anxiety is, understandably, running high. For many, this means that the choice between heating their home and buying other essentials is a regular concern.
Our survey found that an overwhelming 81% of respondents feel concerned about affording heating this winter, while 73% said high heating and energy bills are one of their top worries for the coming months. As a result, 77% are planning to reduce their heating usage, and nearly half (47%) fear they’ll end up feeling cold in their own homes.
This is a worrying revelation; when you’re cold, your body has to work much harder to maintain temperature, putting strain on your heart and respiratory system. For those with conditions like arthritis, cold homes can also make symptoms worse, increasing pain and reducing mobility. And, in some extreme cases, a cold home can be life-threatening. In the past decade alone, over 250,000 people over the age of 50 have lost their lives to cold-related illnesses.
As a way to cut costs, nearly three-quarters (74%) of respondents said they plan to limit the hours they have their heating on, while 48% intend to heat fewer rooms in their homes. And the ripple effects extend beyond heating, too, with 36% scaling back on socialising, 27% spending less on Christmas gifts, and 17% even reducing their food and grocery budgets.
If you’re struggling with heating costs, it’s worth exploring what support might be available. The Winter Fuel Payment provides an elderly heating allowance to help with energy bills, while the Warm Home Discount Scheme can also provide financial help. Some energy suppliers have their own hardship funds for vulnerable customers facing difficulties, which usually includes older adults. It’s always worth checking what you might be entitled to, as many don’t claim support they’re eligible for purely because they don’t know it exists.
Mike Lord, CEO at Stiltz, says, “I completely understand the worry about energy bills, but my winter advice for the elderly would be for anyone struggling to prioritise staying warm, especially in the rooms you use most. It’s worth having a talk with your energy provider – they might have payment plans or support options to help you cover the cost. Also, don’t be shy about asking family members to help you review your bills and check what winter support schemes you might qualify for. Sometimes a fresh pair of eyes can spot savings or support you’ve missed, and there’s absolutely no shame in accepting help when it’s available.”
Winter brings some potential safety risks for older adults, and our survey revealed just how much these concerns weigh on people’s minds. Icy pavements, slippery steps, and reduced visibility in darker mornings and evenings all create hazards that don’t exist during the warmer months.
The fear of falling was overwhelming in our survey results, with a staggering 87% of respondents reporting that they worry about slipping during the winter. With 68% telling us they’ve already experienced a fall or near-miss due to winter conditions in the past, these concerns are valid. When you’ve had a scary moment of losing your footing on ice or stumbling in the dark, it’s understandable to feel worried about it happening again.
Around one-third of people aged 65 and over, and half of those over 80, experience a fall each year. While these are usually minor incidents that might leave you feeling a bit shaken, they can also have serious consequences. In England alone, over 220,000 emergency hospital admissions every year are due to falls in those aged 60 and above.
Winter conditions can also make it harder to leave the house, with 14% of our survey respondents saying difficulty getting out and about is one of their top concerns. When you’re worried about icy paths, uneven pavements hidden under the snow, or even navigating in the dark, it’s tempting to stay indoors where it feels safer. But this can create its own problems, leading to reduced mobility, a loss of confidence, and fewer social interactions.
“A fear of falling is completely natural, especially during icy weather or if it’s already happened once before,” says Mike. “Making simple changes like installing better lighting around doorways, wearing supportive footwear, or removing trip hazards like uneven floor tiles or doormats can make your home feel much safer.”
Seasonal illnesses are another worry during the colder months. Over a third (36%) of those we surveyed fear catching the flu, COVID-19, or other winter illnesses, which can be particularly dangerous for older adults. Respiratory infections that might impact younger people for a few days can lead to serious complications like pneumonia or bronchitis in older adults, causing hospitalisation in some extreme cases.
The good news is that many of these risks can be reduced with some forward planning.
“Illnesses definitely become more of a threat as we get older, so it’s no surprise that so many of our survey respondents had concerns around seasonal bugs like the flu. Luckily, there are a few steps people can take to stay healthier this winter,” Mike explains. “Getting a flu jab ahead of time, keeping up to date with other vaccinations, like the pneumonia jab, washing your hands regularly, and maintaining a balanced diet can all protect your health.”
If you tend to catch illnesses easily, supplements can also help support your immune system during the winter. Vitamin D, in particular, becomes harder to get naturally when there’s less sunlight, and it’s vital for immune function and bone health. It could be worth having a conversation with your GP about whether supplements are right for you.
Keeping an active social life is more challenging during winter, and it’s easy to see why. The colder temperatures make leaving the house less appealing, bad weather means that plans could be cancelled at the last minute, and the darker evenings make everything feel like more of an effort. Many people’s schedules also get busier around the festive period, which can mean social connections start to slip.
Our survey revealed just how much winter affects people’s motivation to get out and see others. More than half (56%) told us they feel more inclined to stay at home and isolate themselves during the winter months, and over a third (34%) said they feel lonelier in winter, highlighting the emotional toll this reduced social contact can have.
In total, only 18% of respondents said they socialise with family or friends several times a week during winter, while nearly a quarter (24%) said they rarely or never do at all. This is significant for older adults, who are already at an increased risk of developing mental health conditions, like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which is made worse by isolation.
The survey also found that 19% plan to spend Christmas alone this year, which is particularly sad for a time that’s intended to be spent celebrating together with children, grandchildren, and other extended family.
The emotional impact of social isolation goes well beyond feeling a bit lonely. Research consistently shows that maintaining social contact is crucial for mental and physical well-being. In fact, loneliness has been linked to a higher risk of depression, anxiety, and even physical health problems like high blood pressure and weakened immune systems.
“Staying connected is just as important as staying warm,” says Mike. “It was concerning to see that such large volumes of elderly people across the UK plan to spend the winter alone, or with fewer visits to or from loved ones. Even if it’s harder to get out during winter, regular phone calls, planned visits, or joining local groups can make a big difference to how supported you feel. If you know someone who may be spending Christmas alone, reaching out can mean more than you realise.”
Winter brings real challenges for older adults, from financial pressures to health concerns and isolation. We hope this research has helped to highlight what matters most and encouraged anyone feeling worried about the colder months to take steps to protect themselves and their homes.
If stairs are limiting your mobility, our Stiltz home lifts – including the standard Duo and spacious, wheelchair-friendly Trio – could help you move around more safely.
Get in touch to learn more, or visit our blog for more advice on health and well-being as you age.
Easy to arrange lots of information, No problems with fitting, payment taken in stages, last payment when job was completed. Everyone was friendly from start to finish.
My experience with Stiltz Homelifts. Just over a month ago, I had my Stiltz lift installed and I am so pleased with it. The workmen that came and fitted it were very professional and knew what they were doing. They were so professional I would not hesitate to recommend Stiltz lifts to anybody.
Great looking product, knowledgeable sales people, fitters work clean quickly and polite. Definitely recommend.
Great stylist lift, had for six months without a hitch. Installed by company staff not subcontractors. Cannot fault the lift, buying experience, installation, service. Good company ethos and made in UK.
From the very beginning with the initial construction to the finished product. I have never seen such polite men with an equal work ethic. They cleaned as they went each day. The pets were never in harm. The finished product is awesome. Couldn’t be more pleased
Excellent from beginning to end – and beyond.
Everybody we dealt with at Stiltz was very helpful and efficient, from the initial meeting with Nick Sale, the sales rep, thorough technical inspection, the builders, installers, plumber, electrician, and excellent follow up service and attention. My husband’s life is transformed and mine is much easier. Thank you Stiltz.
Elegant lift, promptly installed by careful and tidy fitters who removed their rubbish the following day. A fair price and an envied addition to our home.
I have been astounded and gratified by the levels of service we have received from every member of the Stiltz teams we have dealt with. A superb lift with exceptional service!
An excellent company from the first contact to the completed project. All personnel were friendly and very polite but stayed extremely professional throughout. Having been in the construction industry for over 40 years I was aware the preparation work was carried out to a high standard by the best of trades people. The lift itself can not be faulted both the operation and aesthetics.
The service was better than 1st class. It was excellent in every way. We could not be more pleased with everything Stiltz applied it’s self to in any way. We would award 6 stars at the very least.
Home lifts are a modern alternative to stairlifts, offering reliability, speed, capacity, and seamless aesthetic integration for a stylish and efficient solution.
Disability Facilities Grants, up to £30,000, can fund home adaptations like Stiltz lifts, supporting independent living for disabled individuals.
Power cuts can be unpredictable. Here’s what you need to know about using your home lift when the lights go out.
