Winter healthcare hurdles and the role of Nexus Care

Winter presents significant challenges for the care sector and the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK.

The season is marked by a spike in health-related issues, primarily affecting the elderly. These include respiratory illnesses, flu, and complications due to colder temperatures, leading to an upsurge in NHS demands.

Increased admissions and demand

• Respiratory illnesses and flu: Winter is notorious for a surge in respiratory conditions, including severe cases of flu. These illnesses particularly affect the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions, leading to a spike in hospital admissions.
• Slips and falls: Cold and icy conditions contribute to an increase in falls and slips, especially among the elderly, resulting in fractures and other injuries that necessitate medical attention.
• Seasonal Affective Disorders: The shorter daylight hours can lead to an increase in mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, requiring additional NHS services.

Staff shortages and an overburdened workforce

• Illness among staff: Just like the general public, hospital staff are also more susceptible to illness in winter. This leads to increased sick leave, exacerbating staff shortages.
• Holiday season: With the festive period falling in winter, there’s often a higher request for leave among staff, creating gaps in rosters that can be hard to fill.

Limited resources and infrastructure challenges

• Bed shortages and long delays: The influx of patients can lead to a shortage of beds and treatment spaces within hospitals, sometimes resulting in delayed treatments and extended waiting times.
• Pressure on emergency services: Ambulance services and emergency departments face enormous pressure due to the increase in emergency calls and visits.
• Outpatient and elective care delays: Non-urgent procedures and appointments often face postponement to accommodate the urgent needs of winter-related illnesses.

This situation can lead to longer waiting times and potentially impact patient care quality.

How Nexus Care helps

Nexus Care Services provides an essential support system for their clients that complements the efforts of the NHS, particularly during these times. Our approach is multifaceted:

Personalised care plans

At Nexus Care, we prioritise individualised care plans, adapting to the changing needs of our clients. This flexibility helps to prevent unnecessary hospital admissions and readmissions, which are critical issues during the winter period.

By managing care needs at home, Nexus Care aids in freeing up hospital beds and resources, allowing the NHS to concentrate on those requiring immediate medical attention.

What makes Nexus Care different?

At Nexus Care you can expect a rapid response time. We can assess your loved one within 48 hours of initial contact and organise suitable care within one week. Our quick turnaround ensures that your family member’s care needs are evaluated swiftly.

This efficiency is crucial in reducing the strain on hospitals, where similar assessments may take significantly longer.

Respite care, waking nights and sleep-ins

We offer several types of services to support your loved ones during the dark winter evenings:

• Respite care: Providing temporary relief for those caring for elderly relatives, allowing them time for personal errands or rest.
• Sleep-in service: Carers stay overnight, ensuring continuous care and peace of mind for family members.
• Waking night service: Carers remain vigilant throughout the night, offering assistance as needed, from toileting, to hygiene or managing pain.

These services not only ease the burden on families but also positively impact the mental health of those being cared for, offering social interaction and a change in routine.

To find out more details about these services, check out our previous blog here.

The winter months are a testing period for the NHS, with increased demand and limited resources.

Nexus Care plays a pivotal role in mitigating these pressures through personalised care plans, swift assessments and supportive services for loved ones.

If you would like to know more about our care services, visit our website, contact us or email us today at info@nexuscareservices.co.uk.

At Nexus Care Services, we provide tailored care plans to support your individual needs. If you or a loved one needs support, contact us today at 0121 308 2906.