Be aware of older adults during winter, gov't urge
The government is urging families to be aware of the needs of older adults as the weather gets colder.
Following the release of figures from the Office for National Statistics detailing some 25,700 excess deaths among older adults last winter through circulatory and respiratory diseases, the government is trying to raise awareness of the importance of looking after older members of the community.
Anne Milton, public health minister, stated: "[Older adults], and those who are ill, are particularly vulnerable during cold weather.
"We all have a role to play in remembering the needs of friends, relatives and neighbours who could be at risk."
In order to ensure the safety and wellbeing of older adults, the government is asking individuals to check on others to ensure that they are safe and well, make sure they are warm enough and that they have plenty of food and medicine.
Dr Rod Altman, director general of Saga, also called for action to tackle growing fuel poverty among older adults and urged people to join the Surviving Winter Campaign.
Under the scheme, individuals can donate their winter fuel payments to help vulnerable people heat their homes during the colder months.
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