DAVE Cotton from Age Concern Devon, said: "The risk of falling increases as we get older — an 85 year old is five times more likely to have a fall than a 65 year old — so it is important that help is readily at hand.

"Older people can often feel particularly vulnerable during the colder and darker winter months but there are some things they can do to help them feel more confident in their own homes.

"Regular contact with family and friends for example or, if this isn't practical, a personal alarm system will make them feel safer yet still let them live their lives as normal."

A product such as Aid Call from Age Concern, enables an older person to gain instant help when they fall in their home. The Aid Call alarm operates a two-way speech link to enable the person who has raised the alarm to talk to an operator within seconds.

The operator can then, in turn, contact their chosen keyholder — a friend, neighbour or relative — who will come to their aid.

If there is no contact available, the emergency services will be contacted.