LAST year saw a big increase in the death rate in Swindon, with the figure among those aged over 75 jumping more than ten per cent.

The Office of National Statistics has revealed figures for each local authority in England and Wales, with the figures showing 131 more people died in 2015 than the average for the previous four years.

Many of these were in the over 75 category, a pattern which was repeated across the country.

Swindon is particularly susceptible to these increases because it has a high number of elderly residents in comparison to other places.

Because of this, the death rate among over 75-year-olds is several per cent above the national average.

As result of the rise, which bucks a recent trend of decline, the ONS has looked into the reason for the rise.

The main causes have been put down to the rise in cases of flu, especially among those with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Cherry Jones, Director of Public Health at Swindon Borough Council, said: “The increase in deaths in Swindon last year follows a national rise over this period.

“This is being associated with flu as well as dementia and respiratory disease such as pneumonia. The increase in Swindon is slightly larger than the national average.

“However, we have proportionally more older people and this number is growing annually. This means the figures need to be considered with this in mind and viewed over a number of years in order to identify clear trends.”

“People with dementia may be more susceptible to these kinds of conditions, potentially explaining the statistics.”

To try and reverse the increase, the council runs a number of programmes and campaigns to make people aware of the support which is available to them.

The message being sent out is people, along with the relations of elderly people, should ensure they get help early on.

“We continue, working with our partners, to focus on initiatives such as falls prevention and Safe & Warm to reduce older people’s vulnerability and help them to stay safe and well,” said Cherry.

“Concentrating on early intervention and prevention, Swindon residents are also encouraged to seek advice and support at the earliest stage, by accessing the Swindon Advice and Support Centre or visiting the My Care My Support website at www.mycaremysupport.co.uk , which offers a wealth of information and guidance about services and help available.”