Charity publishes ‘shocking' hypothermia figures

Almost 900 people over 50 were taken by hospital for hypothermia treatment last December, figures from the Scottish Ambulance Service, obtained by Age Scotland, have revealed.

This was at a time when the Winter Fuel Payment was a universal benefit received by all pensioners.  

Now, with 200,000 (85%) of pensioners in Scotland living in poverty or just above the poverty line set to lose this vital financial support, Age Scotland is seriously concerned about the number of older people who will be forced to make risky and damaging choices to cope through the winter.  

Ahead of the Budget, the charity says the UK government must retreat from their ‘rushed and ill-advised’ decision to means test the benefit.  

Age Scotland’s Chief Executive, Katherine Crawford, said:

“It’s absolutely shocking that so many older people were taken to hospital due to hypothermic symptoms last year, and highlights the extreme risks of older people face staying warm at home.

“Hypothermia is entirely preventable, and yet bitterly cold temperatures paired with the soaring cost of living were life-threating last winter.

“Now, with the loss of the universal Winter Fuel Payment, we are seriously concerned about an increasing number of older people reluctant or unable to heat their homes to a comfortable level for fear of running up unmanageable energy bills, putting their health in jeopardy.

“Living in cold or damp conditions can put older people at high risk of flu and respiratory illness, as well as increasing instances of heart attack and strokes. It can also aggravate symptoms of underlying health conditions and cause them to worsen over time.

“With the NHS and social care services under unprecedented strain, we believe keeping people out of hospital by preventing illnesses should be a key focus for both the UK and Scottish governments.

“Our message to the UK Government ahead of the Budget is clear – this is the last chance to save a vital means of financial support and ensure older people aren’t left in the cold this winter.”