How to Combat Loneliness at Christmas

For most people Christmas is considered a time of happiness, sharing and fun. The chance to catch up with family, exchange gifts, and enjoy socialising with friends. But according to Age UK, this is not the case for everyone. They report that nearly 1.5 million older people think of the festive season as the loneliness time of the year. With over 200,000 elderly spending Christmas itself alone.

What Causes Loneliness?

For older people, loneliness can be the result of bereavement or divorce. After a long marriage or partnership facing life alone can be disorientating, and a big change. Spending this most sociable time of the year alone can highlight this.

Illness, reduced mobility, social care needs or cognitive and sensory impairment and a lack of funds can lead to a withdrawal from society as a whole. The effects on physical wellbeing and mental health can be drastic and can contribute to the onset of depression, anxiety, and even dementia.

Help for those Experiencing Loneliness

Organisations like Age UK and other charities offer a range of support and initiatives to those who are living alone and experiencing loneliness all year round, not just at Christmas.
There is a free Age UK Advice Line offering a confidential national phone service for older people, their families, friends, carers and professionals. We have a team of expert advisers who will give you information that is reliable and up-to-date. It is open 8am-7pm, 365 days a year, call 0800 678 1602.

Age UK Befriending Services are available in two forms. A Call in Time is a national service where a volunteer befriender will phone an older person at an agreed time for a chat. Face to Face Befriending services are available at many local Age UKs and a volunteer befriender will visit an older person in their home, perhaps for a cup of tea and a chat, or accompanying them to an activity.

Christmas at Lovett Care Homes

We understand the importance of combatting loneliness and isolation which is why we create a programme of events and activities to enable residents to socialise, make friends and enjoy life with Lovett Care. It is important to have something to look forward to and remain in touch with the wider world. See our Festive Events and contact us for further details about life at our care homes.