Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 08:30 - 19:00 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
09 December 2016 08:05
Many older people feel lonely at Christmas
Do you have any older relatives or neighbours who are likely to be alone over Christmas?
Perhaps it's worth considering popping in to say 'hello'?
So suggests charity Age UK as it reveals that nearly a million (982,200) people aged 60 and above admit to feeling lonelier at Christmas time.
Around two-thirds thought that regular visits from a 'friendly face' would help, while around 50% thought a weekly phone call would be an advantage. Older people visiting family abroad over Christmas can arrange seniors travel insurance.
Age UK wants to raise awareness of the loneliness problem, and has worked with actor James Bolam as part of its No One Should Have No One at Christmas campaign.
Bolam, who played Terry Collier in the 70s sitcom Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads, lends his voice to the story of Roy - an 83-year-old whose wife recently died.
Roy said: "My beautiful wife passed away one year ago and not a day goes by when I don't miss her dearly. It takes some getting used to, going from spending every single day for the past 55 years with the woman I love, to facing each day without her."
He explained how volunteers from Age UK have helped him. Roy has a weekly call and visit, and says he's "feeling much more confident and positive now".
"Joining Age UK's befriending service has been a great help," Roy adds. "I hit it off splendidly with the volunteers I was matched with... and (I) would urge anybody who is feeling lonely and missing their loved ones this Christmas to sign up for this service."
Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK, called on family, friends and neighbours to help make a difference to older people's lives. She said: "A simple phone call or visit, particularly at this time of year when feelings of loneliness can feel especially raw, can really lift the spirits of someone who is going through a difficult time."
04 November 2019
As the nights draw in, we're turning our thoughts to the warmer climes of the Southern Hemisphere and treks in Patagonia that will put a spring in your step...
[more...]
Escape the UK's shorter autumn days and head to the Southern Hemisphere for sun and sporting fun.
21 October 2019
Struggling for holiday inspiration? Let us inspire you with our list of book-themed breaks.
Check out our top recommendations to make the most of your time in Frankfurt, on the River Maine.
30 October 2019
What quirky customs await you on your travels this Halloween?
Look past the petrifying and discover a side to the Romanian region you never knew...
14 October 2019
Bucharest is the jewel of the Balkans crown - explore the city to find a host of hidden gems.
At the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe lies a country with a story to tell. Check out these must-see sites in Croatia to learn more.
07 October 2019
With Halloween on the horizon we look for destinations across the globe with a decidedly mysterious appeal...
What should you eat in Croatia? Good question. Unrumble that tummy with our rundown of our favourite Croat cuisine.
Where's the best beach in Croatia? We answer that question and more as we look at the Adriatic beaches you won't want to miss out on...
02 October 2019
Enjoy National Pizza Month and grab a slice of history with the true story of everyone's favourite Italian flat-bread...