Response to new excess winter death figures equating to 379 older people a day

New figures released by the ONS today show that over the winter of 2017-18 there were nearly 46,000 excess winter deaths among people aged 65 and over. Excess winter deaths compares the number of deaths between December and March to those during the rest of the year.

Responding to the new figures, Age UK's Charity Director Caroline Abrahams, said:

“Last winter there were nearly 46,000 excess winter deaths amongst people aged 65 and over – a shocking 92 per cent of all excess deaths – equating to 379 older people a day. These distressing figures are now the highest we’ve seen in over 40 years.

“A toxic cocktail of poor housing, high energy prices and ill health can make winter a dangerous time for many older people, and tragically it is the oldest old and those who are the most vulnerable who particularly suffer the consequences.

“We know such high levels of excess winter deaths are not inevitable. As a country we are not doing enough to ensure our older population stays warm and well throughout the harsh winter months.

“Age UK is urging older people to do everything possible to protect themselves against the threats posed by the winter cold – and it is vital that we pull together and make sure we all help those around us.”

Anyone who is concerned about staying warm and healthy this winter should call the Charity's advice line free of charge on 0800 169 6565 or visit ageuk.org.uk/winter for a free copy of its annually updated guide Winter wrapped up and to browse our advice on staying warm and healthy in winter.

Ways to protect yourself during the winter

• Have a flu vaccination every year – the new vaccine introduced this year for people 65+ has an agent which helps boost the immune system and helps fight illnesses.
• There is also a pneumonia vaccine. Find out if you’re eligible when you have your flu jab.
• Keep your hands clean - good hand hygiene helps stop infections spreading.
• Keep simple cold and sore throat remedies in your medicine cabinet to treat minor illnesses when they strike. Your local Pharmacist can give advice on treatments.
• Wrap up when you go outside in the cold; use multiple layers and keep hands, feet and face warm and covered with scarves, gloves and thick socks.
• Eat well – make sure you eat at least one hot meal every day, hot drinks throughout the day to keep up energy levels.
• Keep warm to stay well - your living room temperature to 21 degrees and your bedroom temperature to 18 degrees and take particular care if you going from a warm environment into the cold.
• Keep moving – try not to sit still for more than one hour at a time even if you just move your arms and legs. If you can stay active. Not only will it keep you fit and healthy, it will also generate heat to keep you warmer.