Older people urged to take care in icy weather

The present icy weather conditions are lethal to many elderly people who are urged to take extra care at this present time.

Helena Herklots, service director of Age UK is encouraging people to look out for their elderly neighbours and to offer their assistance in tasks such as shopping to save them going out in the ice and extreme cold. Many elderly people who have chosen not to find a nursing home have to get their own shopping, which would be dangerous in present conditions.

Ms Herklots said: "We're asking people to be good friends and neighbours in this weather, to ensure older people are warm and well and aren't left struggling alone. Even a quick visit or phone call could make all the difference."

Other advice to older people is to keep moving inside the house, take regular hot drinkS and food and to make sure their homes are warm and free from draughts.

A survey earlier this week revealed that most over 60s do not realise they are eligible for help with their heating this winter. Most people who do not wish to live in a care home are missing out on assistance with their heating bills.

Half of the older people interviewed thought they were not eligible for the payments, while only 12 per cent of people eligible for home insulation grants actually claim them.

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