With the current unseasonably cold weather set to continue into the Easter weekend, members of the public are being urged to check on their older neighbours.

According to ALONE, the charity which provides support to older people in need, extremely cold temperatures can have a serious effect on some older people, especially those living alone and those with health issues, including mobility problems.

In fact, research indicates that people aged 65 and older are seven times more likely to be admitted to hospital as a result of low temperatures compared with those aged 18 to 44.

The charity is also calling on older people who are concerned about their own wellbeing to call the charity for assistance if needed.

"During holiday periods it can be easy for people to get caught up in their own lives, but it's important to consider older people living alone this Easter given the unseasonal cold weather.

"Continuing cuts in fuel allowances and increases in costs have put people under huge pressure when heating their homes and we know that extreme cold temperatures are felt more acutely by older people. It's vital that older people are proactive in staying warm during the continued extreme cold weather," explained ALONE CEO, Sean Moynihan.

He noted that the fuel allowance cut announced in the last budget will come into effect from Friday, April 5.

ALONE is advising older people to stay indoors, to ensure they have adequate heat in their home, to wear a few layers of light but warm clothing and to ensure they are eating at least one hot meal per day

"The damaging effects of cold weather are not always seen straight away, a variety of health problems can arise afterwards. With many older people having to chose to ‘heat or eat', a visit from a member of the public to check on their heating levels in particular, but also food consumption, adequate security, and simply to offer some human contact can have a huge effect, particularly during holiday periods when people can often feel isolated," Mr Moynihan said.

Any older person who has concerns about their own wellbeing or any member of the public who has concerns about someone else should contact ALONE on (01) 679 1032. It has staff and volunteers who can offer assistance. It also works with other charities and relevant bodies to ensure requests for help are responded to.

For more information on ALONE, click here