"Hypothermia" is a potential killer for many old people each winter. It is caused by lack of warmth.
Today and every winter thousands of old people are threatened by needless death, from the cold rooms in which they live. Many die who could have been saved. Body temperature drops below normal, unnoticed by the old people, well below the minimum regarded as safe by the Department of Health, a situation made worse by fuel shortage and high costs.
Emma is under such a threat. She is 80, and frail. She lives alone in a cold, damp room with almost no heating. She has no proper toilet, and only a tap in the yard for water — even in winter.
The answer is simple: adequate warmth, in housing suited to the needs of old people. Help the Aged are already rehousing many old people in pleasant, simple flats where old people find happiness and independence, with a friendly warden on call when needed.
More old people like Emma must be rehoused, urgently. Lack of money keeps them out in the cold. Yet £2 can generate £40 of new housing with official loans. £150 names a flat in memory of someone dear to you. £250 names a double flat. £450 a friendly common room.
If you have a home and something to be thankful for, please send quickly.
Hon. Treasurer, Rt. Hon. Lord MaybrayKing, Help the Aged, Room CAH IA, 8 Denman Street, London WIA 2AP.