Spread the Warmth this winter
Published on 15 November 2012 04:30 PM
As many as 245,000 people aged 65 and over in Wales are not getting any help, support or companionship from neighbours.
That's according to new research out today to mark the launch of Age Cymru's Spread the Warmth winter campaign.
Our Director of Influencing and Programme Development Victoria Lloyd says:
"The winter can be difficult for thousands of older people.
"The colder weather brings with it a massive increase in associated health problems for older people including heart attacks and strokes, respiratory problems, pneumonia and depression.
"During the winter, isolation can also intensify having an adverse effect on physical and mental well-being and some studies prove that feelings of loneliness can this can be equivalent to well-established risk factors such as obesity and smoking.
"We are calling on the people of Wales to Spread the Warmth by coming together throughout the winter months and pledging to help older people in their local community."