Older person’s charity ALONE has expressed concern for the wellbeing of some older people in need during the forecasted extreme weather conditions and status orange weather alert

Forecasted extreme cold weather conditions potentially pose a health risk for isolated older people. ALONE, the charity which supports older people in need in Ireland, is urging older people to take extra care and for members of the public to check on their older neighbours.

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 calling on older people who are concerned about their own wellbeing during the cold weather to call for assistance and help if needed.

Seán Moynihan, CEO of ALONE commented, “Following a status orange weather warning from Met Éireann we are calling on all members of the public to remember their older neighbours living alone and to consider their needs. We’re advising older people to stay warm in the cold weather by ensuring they have adequate home heating, wearing layers of light but warm clothing, eating at least one hot meal a day and staying indoors if possible.”

Those who have concerns for an older person, or older people in need of assistance can contact ALONE on (01) 679 1032. The charity, which depends on donations from the public, has volunteers and staff ready to act on requests for assistance, and works in partnership to ensure all calls for assistance are responded to. ALONE can assist and advise on issues relation to food, heat, or medication. Older people are also advised to have a list of important phone numbers close to their home phone.

Further information, including advice and tips for older people in cold weather conditions, can be found on www.alone.ie.

For more information contact:

Roisin Furlong, Limelight Communications, roisin.furlong@limelight.ie, 01 668 0600

Kathryn Byrne, Limelight Communications, kathryn.byrne@limelight.ie 01 668 0600, 085 233 6033