Cold weather can cause heating and health worries for older people, says chief executive of Age UK Wyvern
Age UK estimate around a quarter of over 65s across the whole country are concerned about the coming winter
A South Worcestershire and Herefordshire charity has said it is important to keep a check on those who are elderly during the colder months.
Age UK estimate around a quarter of over 65s across the whole country are concerned about the coming winter.
It also estimates almost half of over 65s (46%) are worried about very cold weather this season.
Chief executive of Age UK Wyvern Clare Thomas has said this time of year is a real concern for some and them as a charity.
"The cold weather definitely impacts older people," she said.
"Their worries are about being able to heat their homes to afford to heat their homes because of the increases in cost of living.
"They're worried about their health and we are especially worried about people who have long-term health conditions because the impact on their physical and their mental health is exacerbated by cold weather."
On what people can do to keep a check on others, she added: "It's really important that if so, for example, if somebody hadn't seen their elderly neighbour for a couple of days and would normally expect to then go and knock on the door or give them a call to see if they're ok.
"If the weather gets slippery and somebody who's elderly wants to go out shopping then help them do that so that they're less likely to fall and make sure that they've got the food that they need, the medications that they need.
"The other thing is that loneliness is a big factor in people's physical health as well as their mental health, so if you're just checking in on people and keeping an eye on them, it means so much to that person."
The government said last month nine million pensioners are to benefit from 'vital support' for energy costs during the colder months through Winter Fuel Payments.