Dublin communities urged to reach out to older people this winter

Dale Greenwood 04 Dec 2020
Lord Mayor of Dublin, Hazel Chu, Michael McCarthy and Eilieen Murphy.

The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Hazel Chu, launched Dublin City Council and ALONE’s cold weather campaign outside the Mansion House today.

Dublin City Council’s Community Development Section, in association with ALONE, the Gardaí, Dublin Fire Brigade is urging members of the public to check in on older people in their community this winter.

Lord Mayor Hazel Chu said: “These colder winter months can be a difficult time for many older people who are vulnerable and may be feeling anxious and isolated.

“We are appealing to all Dubliners and indeed people across the country to be mindful of older people in our communities who may live alone or be at risk of struggling with loneliness, health difficulties or fuel poverty.”

ALONE is also encouraging older people to prioritise their spending on heating during the winter months. The organisation has staff ready to act on requests for assistance and can advise on issues relating to food, heat, utilities or medication.

Seán Moynihan, CEO of ALONE commented: “We regularly work with older people who don’t have central heating, live in challenging housing conditions, and even people who have used their free travel and stayed on buses and trains during the day to keep warm.

“Colder temperatures can have a serious impact on the health and safety of older people, and Ireland has among the highest levels of excess winter mortality in Europe. It’s really important that we reach out to people who may be finding things difficult due to ill health, financial worries, or housing difficulties. We hope that by spreading this message and by reaching out, more people will stay safe and well this winter.”

Contact ALONE on 0818222024 if you have concerns about your own wellbeing, or the wellbeing of a vulnerable older person in the community. For more information, including advice and tips for older people in cold weather conditions, visit www.alone.ie.

 

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