Sparing a Thought for Others at Christmas
New evidence from Age UK reveals the scale and health impacts of loneliness amongst older people – with 9 in 10 older people who are often lonely.
The latest research from Age UK highlights the impact of loneliness for older people and that if we don’t tackle loneliness, by 2034 there will be 1.2 million people over 65 in England who will be experiencing the loneliness on a regular basis.
We’re sure this stark reminder will resonate with many of our residents who may have lost special loved ones and feel isolated during the festive period. This is why we take the time each December to pause and think about how we can support the older community over Christmas. Even the simple act of checking in on a neighbour or picking up the phone to friends or relatives can make Christmas so much brighter for some.
Throughout the year, our Estate Managers support and encourage residents to take part in social activities which is one of the benefits of living in a retirement community. Most of our estates hold gatherings for special occasions throughout the year in addition to weekly social events. There are also allotment groups and gardening enthusiasts who take a special interest in keeping our communal grounds looking spectacular.
This week, pictures have been flooding in from all our estates across the country as Estate Managers together with residents have put up their festive decorations. This is something we actively encourage each year as the act of getting involved with decorating communal areas provides the perfect opportunity for people to socialise, be part of the festivities and feel more connected at this time of year.
A selection of photos from our estates as they prepare for Christmas.
We also actively encourage residents to get involved with local events taking place in their communities through a range of organisations and charities across the country. One initiative we focus on every year is One Day at Christmas - a charity event run by the UK events industry to create a wonderful and special Christmas day experience for lonely people who would not otherwise have that opportunity. For more information on this, visit One Day at Christmas where you can keep an eye out for next year's events and find out how to register.
Another valuable resource for those who may be feeling isolated during Christmas, or at other times of the year, is Re-engage, offering Community Christmas - a free directory of festive events and activities taking place across the UK up until 1 January 2025 that are accessible to older people aged 75 and over. This is a great resource for older people who may be lonely or socially isolated, to find out about events where they can spend time with others during the festive period.
From all of us at ELM Group, we are wishing you a merry month and, for anyone feeling isolated during this time or concerned for a friend or loved one, remember there is support available. Here are some of the main organisations offering support throughout the year, as well as during the festive period:
The Silver Line provides a helpline for older people, available 24 hours a day, every day of the year: 0800 470 80 90.
Age UK & Silver Line telephone friendship service – a free service for those looking for someone to speak to regularly from the comfort of their own home.
Mind offers an information and signposting service and is open between 9am and 6pm until the 24 December. Helplines will be closed on 27 and 28 December and 3 January. For urgent assistance you can click the ‘Get help now’ button on the website. Infoline: 0300 123 3393 | Email: info@mind.org.uk.
Samaritans’ helpline is available any time of day or night, any day of the year, including Christmas Day. Call 116 123.
Shout is a free, confidential text messaging support service for anyone struggling to cope. Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258.