Christmas is usually a time for celebration, but for some it only brings dread as the cold season kicks in. This week alone there are expected to be over 2,500 additional deaths as a direct effect of the drop in temperatures, according to health officials. Wills and probate professionals should fully prepare and safeguard their clients this season, and for the winters to come.
Reports from the Faculty of Public Health and the Met Office have revealed that a greater percentage of the British population suffer from the significant drop in temperatures, compared to well-known wintry countries such as Finland and Russia.
Last year’s mild temperatures meant that there was a drop in additional deaths over the winter of 2013/14. Met Office data shows the number of deaths was at 18,200 — the lowest level since records began in the 1950s.
However, new figures suggest that there will be an estimated 40,000 additional deaths during the 2014/15 winter season, compared to the average rates during at other times of year. President of the Faculty of Public Health, Professor Sian Griffiths says many of the conditions and illnesses that lead to a surge in deaths at this time of year are often preventable. She also states the excess death rate could even hit 50,000 if the weather this season is to be as bitter as expected.
According to reports, the majority of these deaths are due to chronic respiratory and circulatory conditions. More than half of deaths are caused by heart attacks, strokes and general poor circulation, with a third caused by lung disease. The risks of all these illnesses are substantially heightened when there is a reduction in temperature.
Fuel poverty is allegedly the main contributing factor for the increase in winter deaths, affecting around 3 million households across Britain. As care costs are often beyond what the typical person can afford, many retirees are finding themselves having to cope on their own, while struggling to cover rising energy bills.
Winter is a crucial time for wills and probate clients, as preparations in place for later life and after they’re gone will often be coming into effect. One way for professionals to view this issue is you have the capability, with sound financial planning, to improve a person’s quality of life and allow their heart-felt wishes to be granted when they’re deceased.
On the other hand, wills and probate professionals also have the power to potentially save many lives. If the executor has clearly set out care plans, a strong investment backing with a steady retirement income, and is safe in the knowledge their estate and prized possessions will be handled by a trusted, qualified professional, this is evidently a life changing responsibility for the industry.
