Elderly worried about staying warm this winter

As a result of recent energy price hikes almost two-thirds of older people are more worried about their ability to stay warm and well this winter than last year, according to research from New Age Concern.

This research coincides with the Office for National Statistics announcement today that there were 22,400 excess winter deaths of older people last year.

The UK has the highest number of excess winter deaths in Europe - higher than countries with more severe winters such as Finland, Denmark and Austria. As this winter is predicted to be colder than last year, it is very likely that there will be an increase in the number of excess winter deaths in the UK.

With more than half of pensioners cutting back on food and heating because of the increased cost of living, Age Concern is warning that this could be putting the health of thousands of older people at risk. If older people cut back on their heating during a colder winter this could lead to a rise in the numbers affected by cold-related illnesses, which contribute to thousands of the excess winter deaths of older people each year.

The charity is urging the Government to take action to help the poorest pensioners who are struggling to afford to heat their homes by addressing unfair energy pricing. This is backed by the charity's new research, which shows that almost eight out of 10 people think the Government should intervene in the energy market to ensure the poorest customers do not pay more for their energy.

Gordon Lishman, Director General of Age Concern, said: "It is a national scandal that we have a higher number of excess winter deaths than every other country in Europe. With this winter set to be colder than last, the numbers are likely to rise. Pensioners are clearly more worried about staying warm and well this year. Yet, the impact of increased energy bills is causing thousands to risk their health by cutting back on heating.

"We would urge any older person who is struggling to make ends meet to find out if they are entitled to benefits, which could help to make paying their bills easier, and to take extra precautions to stay warm during the colder weather. The extra help for pensioners in this week's Pre-Budget Report is welcome but the Government must do much more to address unfair energy pricing which is penalising the poorest pensioners and families."

Age Concern has welcomed the increased funding for the Warm Front scheme announced in the Pre-Budget Report but is calling on the Government to go much further in helping the one in three pensioner households who will be living in fuel poverty this winter. Reforms to social tariffs and an end to the over-charging of pre-payment meter, cash and cheque customers are urgently needed to ensure the poorest customers don't pay more for their energy. The charity is also calling for a radical new fuel poverty strategy, supported by a fair funding formula that recognises the windfall gains to the energy industry from the EU Emissions Trading Scheme.

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 increased energy bills.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.