Blog: Top tips to help tackle loneliness this festive season
Our research has revealed that 150,000 over 65s will be eating Christmas dinner alone this year.
We're urging everyone to do what they can to tackle loneliness in communities across Scotland by reaching out to older friends, relatives and neighbours and including them in festive plans to ensure no one is facing what can be a difficult day on their own.
There are plenty of simple and practical things we can all do to help older people feel included and supported over the festive season and beyond.
Sharing time together: Check in regularly with your older relatives, friends, and neighbours to see how they’re feeling, and find out if there’s anything they need. Invite them round for a coffee or lunch. If you’re unable to visit in person there’s still plenty you can do to show you care – a phone or video call, making homemade cards, letters or even small gifts. Small gestures can go a long way.
Offering practical support: When the weather takes a turn for the worse, many older people may find it difficult to get out and about. Offering support with tasks like collecting shopping essential or prescriptions and clearing paths and driveways of snow and ice can be a real help during times like these.
Giving out useful numbers: For practical information, advice, and friendship, encourage older people to use the Age Scotland helpline and friendship line, both available via 0800 12 44 222.
Seek support in the community: Community groups play a vital role in tackling loneliness on a local level. If you’re not sure where to start, Age Scotland’s Community Connecting service aims to link older people across Scotland up with organisations offering friendship, social activities, health and fitness groups, and events. Call 0800 12 44 222 for more information.
Join Age Scotland as a volunteer: Christmas is a great time to get involved and give your time to charity. Age Scotland is reliant on the generous support of its friendship volunteers who provide vital companionship to older people all year round. Visit www.age.scot/volunteer to find out more.
