PEOPLE ARE BEING encouraged to check in with their older neighbours as the cold weather persists.
ALONE, the charity which supports older people in need, is urging members of the public to check on their older neighbours in the days leading up to the weekend and during the holiday itself as extreme cold weather conditions are due to continue.
It says that continued extreme cold temperatures can have a serious affect on many older people, in particular those living alone, those with health issues, and those with limited mobility.
ALONE is also calling on older people who are concerned about their own wellbeing to call for assistance and help if needed.
Seán Moynihan, CEO of ALONE said:
During holiday periods it can be easy for people to get caught up in their own lives, but it’s important to consider older people living alone this Easter given the unseasonal cold weather. Continuing cuts in fuel allowances and increases in costs have put people under huge pressure when heating their homes and we know that extreme cold temperatures are felt more acutely by older people. It’s vital that older people are proactive in staying warm during the continued extreme cold weather.
He pointed out that the fuel allowance cut from the most recent budget has meant that the period, cut by six weeks, will now finish on Friday week, April 5.
ALONE is advising older people who have concerns to stay warm in the cold weather by ensuring they have adequate heat at home, wear layers of light but warm clothing, be sure to eat at least one hot meal a day and to stay indoors.
The charity depends on donations from the public and has volunteers and staff ready to act on requests for assistance. It also works with other charities and bodies to ensure all calls for assistance are responded to.
Those who have concerns for an older person, or older people in need of assistance can contact ALONE on (01) 679 1032. Further information, including advice and tips for older people in cold weather conditions, can be found on www.alone.ie.
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