An elderly woman who 'couldn't afford heating' died with hypothermia, an inquest has heard. Barbara Bolton, 87, was admitted to hospital on December 11 last year with hypothermia and a chest infection.
She was admitted to hospital after saying she had not been able to afford heating at her home, the inquest heard. Ms Bolton died on January 5 in hospital after a decision was made with her family to place her on end of life care.
The inquest heard she was a mother and a widow and had previously worked as a pharmacy assistant.
Coroner's Officer, Jane Scullion, told the hearing: "Barbara was admitted to hospital on December 11, 2022, with hypothermia, and a chest infection.
"During that time she continued to deteriorate. After a discussion, she was placed on end of life care and passed away."
Assistant Coroner for Manchester North, Julie Mitchell, said: "Her death was particularly accelerated by hypothermia and there is a possibility of self neglect due to the lack of heating so her death has been referred to the coroner."
Hypothermia is caused by prolonged exposure to very cold temperatures. Ms Bolton's son Mark, told the MEN: "We were in contact with her every day and saw her and spoke to her. We have to deal with the sad loss now and it's very hard for me and my family."
A full inquest, which will explore the circumstances which led to Ms Bolton's death, will take place later this year.
