Age Concern And Help The Aged's Cold Weather Statement, UK

Main Category: Flu / Cold / SARS
Also Included In: Public Health
Article Date: 15 Dec 2009 - 0:00 PDT

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Andrew Harrop, Head of Policy at Age Concern and Help the Aged, said:

'With temperatures set to drop below zero in some parts of the country over the next few days, we are urging vulnerable older people, who are more susceptible to the cold, to take extra precautions to stay warm and keep active.

'For older people, protection against the cold is vital. Last winter's cold snap sent excess winter mortality to a 10-year high, with around three quarters of excess winter deaths recorded among people aged 75 or over.

'With around 2.5 million older households living in fuel poverty, many pensioners will be struggling with high energy bills this winter. At this time of year, it is vital for them to check they are claiming all their entitlements. This is particularly important in case a prolonged cold snap triggers one-off Cold Weather Payments worth £251. Up to 1.8 million eligible pensioners not currently claiming Pension Credit would miss out on these payments.

'Anyone who is cutting back on basics such as food and heating because they're concerned about high energy bills should call our free helpline on 0800 00 99 66 or contact their local Age Concern to find out what extra benefits they may be entitled to.'

Age UK is the new force combining Age Concern and Help the Aged. We will be known by our new name from Spring 2010. The Age UK family includes Age Scotland, Age Cymru and Age NI.

Notes

1. A payment of £25 is made to people receiving certain benefits including Pension Credit when the average temperature at a specified weather station has been recorded as, or is forecast to be, 0° Celsius or below over seven consecutive days. The payments are made automatically.

Top tips to stay warm and well this winter

1. Claim your benefits - Millions of pensioners are missing out on their share of up to £5 billion in unclaimed benefits. If you are eligible this could make a huge difference to your weekly income and go some way towards meeting your energy bills.

2. Eat well and keep warm - Hot meals and drinks provide warmth and energy. Try to eat one nutritious hot meal every day and have a hot drink before bedtime. Wear several layers of clothes to keep warm and wrap up well when you go outside.

3. Stay active - Regular exercise generates heat and helps you to keep warm. It can be as simple as doing household chores or a stroll to the local shops.

4. Get a flu jab - If you're over 65 or have a long-term health condition, you're more vulnerable to the effects of flu. There are different strains of the virus each winter - make sure you are protected by getting a free flu jab from your GP every year.

5. Shop around - Shopping around for the best energy rate could make you a considerable saving. If you are on a low income you may also be eligible for a discounted social tariff. Contact your energy supplier and check if you are eligible for a discounted tariff.

6. Get energy efficient - Improving your insulation, central heating, double glazing or draught-proofing could help keep your house warm and cut your bills. If you receive benefits you may be able to get a Warm Front grant to help pay for heating improvements, and your energy supplier may offer energy efficiency products like insulation free of charge.

Source
Help the Aged

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