ALONE encourage public to check in on older neighbours as weather takes a colder turn
ALONE is urging older people to take extra care as temperatures begin to drop during the cold snap in the coming days. Older people can be more vulnerable during poor weather and frosty conditions, especially those living alone or in rural areas, those with health issues, and those with limited mobility. Older people may also be struggling under the current Level 5 restrictions, so it is important to reach out to them to ensure that they have everything they need and that they are kept safe and warm this winter.
Met Éireann has issued a Status Yellow weather warning as “hazardous icy conditions” will hit the country this evening, with an alert for low temperatures and ice in place from 5 pm until 12 noon tomorrow. Temperatures could drop to -8C in some parts of the country tonight, with Met Éireann predicting it may be the coldest night of the year so far.
ALONE is calling on members of the public to check on their older neighbours and assist them if they need help with grocery shopping, collecting prescriptions or other practical tasks during the bad weather. ALONE is also asking 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 drop in temperatures increased wind and rain and a frost risk, we are advising older people to be prepared by ensuring they have adequate heat, medication, food and to stay indoors where possible. Older people may also be feeling worried due to the current restrictions. Many older people are often embarrassed to reach out, and think that by asking for help and support they are bothering people. ALONE want them to know that they deserve the support they require and should not be afraid to ask for help if needed.”
He continued, “We are also calling on all members of the public to remember their older neighbours living alone and to consider their needs; if there is anything you think you can help with, no matter how small, do reach out to them. It could make a world of difference to an older person during these challenging times.”
Contact ALONE on 0818 222 024 if you have concerns about your own wellbeing, or the wellbeing of a vulnerable older person in the community. Further information, including advice and tips for older people in extreme weather conditions, can be found on www.alone.ie .
