Age UK launches Christmas loneliness campaign

While Christmas is often a happy celebration for the majority, a shocking statistic has revealed that more than 500,000 older people will spend it alone this year. To add to this, one million older people have not seen or spoken to a relative or friend in over a month, with one in four admitting that the television is their main form of companionship.

No one should have to spend Christmas alone. In order to combat these unacceptable figures, Age UK has begun a festive campaign to encourage people to get involved and help change older people’s lives for the better.

There are many ways in which it is possible to make a difference to a lonely older person, and Age UK is hoping to highlight these with the no one should have no one at Christmas campaign.

With your help Age UK can combat loneliness

Donations can provide a variety of support, with just £5 enabling Age UK to answer a call from a lonely older person who has phoned the Advice Line. A further £25 assists the charity to campaign for older people’s rights for equal treatment, and £75 can be used to fund vital research to help shape older people’s services.

You can also sign a petition to get Age UK’s voice heard by the government, or volunteer your time, whether this is working at your local Age UK, charity shop, or at an event.

See just how your support could help an older person by reading about Mary’s story here.

So, if you know of an older person who can’t get out and about very often as they rely on a home stairlift due to mobility difficulties, or have an inkling that your older neighbour does not have any relations close by, why not go and visit them this Christmas and ensure they’re not one of the half million who will spend the day alone.

Image Credit: David Hodgson (flickr.com)


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