A hospital consultant has issued advice to older people to help them stay healthy and out of hospital over the festive period.
Winter conditions can increase falls, pneumonia and flu, heart conditions and other health issues, with more than 40% of emergency admissions in England involving people aged 65 and over.
Staying active, keeping warm and being in contact with others can reduce the need for a hospital visit, according to the NHS Humber Health Partnership.
Dr Kirsten Richards, who specialises in ageing and frailty, said older people are “more susceptible to colder temperatures which can lead to very serious illnesses”.
“It’s important that they stay warm, active and well-hydrated and in contact with others,” she added.
Cold temperatures and wintry conditions lead to an increase in admissions to Hull Royal Infirmary, Castle Hill Hospital, Goole Hospital, Scunthorpe General or Diana, Princess of Wales Hospital in Grimsby, the partnership said.