Clare Public Urged To Help The Elderly During The Winter Months

Ireland (SANEPR.com) December 2, 2008 -- Cllr. Madeleine Taylor Quinn said, "Fuel poverty affects more than seven per cent of all pensioner households, and older people are sometimes reluctant to use up their electricity and fuel allowances. Therefore, it is important that people across the County do their bit to assist elderly neighbours and family members.”

The Mayor’s appeal follows an extended period of cold weather with recent night time temperatures plummeting to well below freezing. Despite forecasts of a return to milder weather in the coming days, the Met office has predicted that temperatures across County Clare will drop back to low single figures by the weekend.

Mayor Taylor Quinn continued, “According to figures from Age Action Ireland some 1,500 to 2,000 more people die in the winter months compared to the rest of the year, due largely to poor housing standards. The percentage of excess deaths in Ireland is 19 per cent, but it is ten per cent in Finland. These figures highlight the importance of checking on elderly relatives and neighbours to make sure that they are warm, have enough food and adequate heating.””

“Older people, particularly those living in isolated areas, are more vulnerable during colder spells of weather. There are a number of simple measures that can be taken by the general public in order to reduce the risk to old people during cold and inclement weather,” she added.

The Mayor explained, “Those who are elderly and living alone should be checked on by neighbours, morning and evening. A special check should be made on those elderly or disadvantaged who are housebound. Practical help can be given by bringing in solid fuel, ensuring the water supply is sufficient and checking that there is sufficient food in the house, including non-perishable foods. Where neighbours are concerned or worried they should contact the appropriate emergency services including the health services.”

Mayor Taylor Quinn referred members of the public to Age Action Ireland’s website ageaction.ie, which she said featured practical tips and advice.

-ENDS-

Notes to Editor:
- Mayor of Clare Councillor Madeleine Taylor Quinn (087-2402341) is available for interview
- For further information please contact Mark Dunphy of Dunphy Public Relations on 086-8534900 or media@dunphypr.com

Mark Dunphy
Dunphy Public Relations
www.dunphypr.com
media@dunphypr.com
00353-868534900