The AA is calling on individuals to get involved with their local community and look after those in retirement.

Research conducted by the organisation revealed 19 per cent of people over the age of 65 live alone, while one in ten do not have any friends or family members living within five miles.

Furthermore, three per cent do not have any relatives that could help them in the event of an emergency.

As a result, the organisation wants people to offer support to those in their local communities and look out for the welfare of their neighbours over winter, as they can become very isolated at this time of year.

Head of AA Home Emergency Response Tom Stringer said: "This winter we'd like to see people look after their neighbours' welfare more, offer to help them clear snow or ice from their property or help them with their shopping, particularly those who are more vulnerable such as the elderly."

Founder and director of Kindness UK David Jamilly agrees with this sentiment, as he recently explained the elderly can feel particularly isolated at Christmas if they are unable to join in with the festivities going on around them.

Many are also struggling financially due to the difficult economic climate and may require greater support, he continued.

The AA study revealed 33 per cent of respondents over the age of 65 are worried they will not be able to afford their heating bills this winter and 37 per cent are concerned about their system breaking down.

Some 36 per cent are troubled by the thought of being snowed in their home, while burst pipes, leaking roofs and not being able to see loved ones were some of the other things concerning the elderly.

Mr Stringer pointed out that many people no longer know their neighbours and a result, some older individuals could end up alone if they do not have family members to help them deal with an emergency.

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