Almost 4 million pensioners face being cold at home this winter

3.9 million British pensioners could be facing a cold winter, following research which reveals over a third (36%) of over 65s expect to be too cold at home as temperatures drop.

The study found that over 65s are the most likely to be cold at home of any age group, with more than a fifth (21%) saying they can’t get their house warm on cold days, no matter what they try.

As a result, 34% of pensioners worry the temperature of their house is bad for their health on cold days, and it’s no wonder. The research, conducted by SpeedComfort, reveals that British homes are falling short of recommended healthy temperatures, putting older and vulnerable people at serious risk.

On average, British pensioners anticipate the temperatures inside their homes will drop down to 13.9°C this winter, over six degrees cooler than the World Health Organisation’s recommendations for older and vulnerable people (20°C).

According to Age UK, this drop in living temperatures can make older people more susceptible to infections, disease and viruses, and impact long-term respiratory and musculoskeletal conditions that many already live with.

The new research backs this up, with data confirming that older people are most vulnerable to the mental and physical effects of the cold.

The survey found that half (50%) of over 65s feel physical discomfort because of the drop in temperature – 7% higher than the average UK adult. Almost the same proportion (49%) say it makes them feel down.

On top of this, 46% of older people feel less motivated when cold and almost a quarter (23%) believe they get ill more often when their home is cold.

Wouter Heuterman, CEO of SpeedComfort, comments: “It’s heartbreaking to discover just how many vulnerable older people in Britain will be feeling the effects of the cold this coming winter.

“With temperatures beginning to drop and the cost of bills continuing to rise, the next few months will present a significant challenge to many households across the UK. But, for older and vulnerable people, the prospect of being cold at home this winter is particularly concerning, given the significant associated health risks.  

“We know times are tough, so, if you are over 65 or have a loved one who is, it’s so important to consider alternative ways of keeping warm and safe this winter. To help with this, we’ve put together a guide for staying warm without increasing energy usage this winter.”

Find out how to stay warm on a budget this winter.