Help elderly this winter, urges NHS Grampian
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NHS Grampian is asking more people to help their elderly neighbours this winter.
The number of local folk aged over 85 is now nearly three times higher than it was 50 years ago.
An ageing population means more demand for health and social care services.
Alison Evison, who chairs NHS Grampian's board, said: “Helping people safely through winter can be as simple as offering to collect supplies from your local shop when you’re going anyway.
"It could also be keeping an eye on the weather forecast and spreading grit or clearing a path or driveway when it snows.
"Preventing a person from falling or feeling isolated makes a huge difference to them and their family.
"It also helps our health and social care teams who continue to go the extra mile during a particularly busy time for the sector."
Michelle Supple, the interim chief executive at Age Scotland, claimed this winter is going to have a "devastating toll" on the physical and mental health of some older people.
She said: "The increasing cost of living and rocketing energy bills are causing high levels of concern and desperation, particularly for the extraordinary numbers of older people on low income or in poverty.
"Older people can become isolated at this time of year if it gets too cold or dangerous to leave their home, particularly in snowy or icy conditions. Cold homes can also make older people very ill, with heart and lung conditions becoming worse.
"We are urging people to keep an eye on their older neighbours, friends and relatives – go round for a cuppa and a blether or pick up their shopping or prescription.
"Now, more than ever, older people need our help.
"No one should face this challenging winter alone."
Age Scotland’s helpline on 0800 12 44 222 provides free and confidential advice as well as signposting to available support.
