ONS reports spike in number of deaths in 2015 driven by increased mortality in over 75s

This comes after the 2015 provisional data showed the highest number of deaths in a single year since 2003 and the highest year on year percentage increase since 1968.

Analysis showed the largest rise in the number of deaths in England and Wales in over a decade was a result of an increase in dementia and Alzheimer's related deaths and respiratory diseases (including flu) among older people.

Jeremy Hughes, Chief Executive of Alzheimer's Society, said:

'With 1 in 6 deaths in England and Wales of people over the age of 75 now attributed to dementia, these findings serve as a stark reminder of the need for good community care to support the most vulnerable.

'People living with dementia often have a lowered immune system and so are at a greater risk of contracting flu viruses. The condition also makes it harder for people to look after themselves and in the cold winter months this can become a real danger.

'This increase also reflects more accurate recording and increased awareness of dementia. Health and care staff are increasingly recognising dementia as a cause of death as opposed to a natural part of ageing. By 2025 over 1 million people will have the condition, with this number only set to increase, making it one of the biggesthealth and social care challenges we face.'

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