Excess winter deaths - Age Cymru responds

Wales is falling behind England when it comes to reducing the numbers of older people who are dying during the winter months.

That's our response to the publication of excess winter death figures for the winter of 2015/2016 by the UK Government.

While today's figures do show a drop of 8,000 in the number of deaths among over 65s in Wales last winter compared with the previous winter, Wales had a higher ‘above average' rate of deaths than any English region in 2015/2016.

Across Wales and England last winter, the above average rate of excess winter deaths - the peak in deaths seen during winter months, was 15 per cent.

In Wales, the above average death rate was 17 per cent - the highest of the 10 areas - including nine English regions, covered by the report.

The second highest ‘above average death rates' were the South West of England and North West England at 15.4 per cent.

Commenting on the figures, Age Cymru's Director of External Affairs Victoria Lloyd said:

"We're obviously glad that there was a significant drop in the numbers of deaths among over 65s in Wales last winter, compared to 2014/2015 when the figures were among the worst seen in modern times.

"However, Age Cymru is very concerned that Wales is bottom of the table - behind every one of England's nine regions, when it comes to making sure our older population is safe and well during the winter months.

"With winter around the corner, we urge older people to ensure they're doing everything possible to protect themselves against the cold weather, such as having their flu jab.

"Anyone who is concerned about staying warm and healthy this winter can call Age Cymru Advice for information and advice free of charge on 08000 223 444 or check our website