Energy prices could fuel winter death rate

Thursday, 27 November 2008 12:00 AM

Concerns have been raised about the current level of energy prices, with Help the Elderly saying it could prompt a spike in winter deaths.

Many people over 60 have expressed fears about being unable to heat their home all winter, according to poll of 2,300 people by the charity.

The UK has one of the highest rates of winter deaths, with the toll hitting nearly 50,000 extra deaths in the late 1990s, according to the Office for National Statistics.

The charity considered the higher-than-average death toll from last year, despite a mild winter. It has expressed concerned of an even bigger increase this year, if predictions that a harsh winter are correct.

"Fear of increased winter bills is causing more than half of older people to cut back on essentials, such as good and energy, which could put their health at risk," said Gordon Lishman director general of Age Concern.

"We would advise any older person worried about making ends meet to find out if they are entitled to claim benefits, as this could help take the worry out of meeting their bills," he added.

The charity is urging vulnerable older people to take extra precautions like staying as active as possible, wrapping up with several layers, and maintaining a healthy diet to stay warm.

Tags:
• domestic policy
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• energy
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• environment
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• equality
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• older people