Elderly need extra care and attention

WITH Ireland in the grip of arctic conditions, the plight of elderly people, especially those living alone in remote areas, should not be forgotten.

In winter, the death rate for the elderly generally increases by 23% and in a cold snap they face added dangers.

Urging the elderly to take precautions makes sense provided they are in a position to do so. But for many the challenge of adapting to severe conditions can be overwhelming.