ALONE, the charity which supports the elderly in need, is urging older people to take extra care following the status yellow wind warning by Met Éireann.
It comes as the capital has been placed under a status yellow wind warning with Storm Lorenzo set to hit our shores between tomorrow morning and Friday evening.
People are being advised by forecasters to stay indoors.
Met Éireann said: "Storm Lorenzo is forecast to track directly over Ireland during the daytime tomorrow. Violent and destructive gusts are forecast with all areas at risk and in particular the southwest and south in the morning, and eastern counties in the afternoon.”
Older people can be at risk during poor weather and stormy conditions.
Those most at risk from the adverse conditions are those living alone, those with health issues, and those with limited mobility.
A spokeswoman for ALONE issued a plea to the public, advising them how to help the elderly during the poor coniditions. She said: "We are calling on members of the public to check on their older neighbours and assist them if they need to travel to the local shop or post office during the bad weather.
"ALONE is also asking older people who are concerned about their own wellbeing during the stormy weather to call for assistance and help if needed.
Seán Moynihan, CEO of ALONE, added: “Following a status yellow weather warning from Met Éireann we are calling on all members of the public to remember their older neighbours living alone and to consider their needs.
"We’re advising older people to be prepared by ensuring they have adequate heat, medication, food and to stay indoors where possible.”
Those who have concerns for an older person, or older people in need of assistance can contact ALONE on lo-call number: 0818 222 024.
The charity, which depends on donations from the public, has volunteers and staff ready to act on requests for assistance, and works in partnership to ensure all calls for assistance are responded to.
They can assist and advise on issues relation to food, heat, or medication.
Older people are also advised to have a list of important phone numbers close to their home phone.
Further information, including advice and tips for older people in cold weather conditions, can be found on www.alone.ie .
