One million older people spent Christmas Day alone

Age Scotland are asking us to check in on our elderly neighbours this week, as it's estimated one million older people spent Christmas Day alone.

Age Scotland’s festive campaign wants to highlight that “we all have a part to play” in ensuring the 1.5 million older people, who feel the loneliest at Christmas time, are given a reason to smile.

Brian Sloan said: “They actually don’t care about presents this Christmas. The best gift they could get is a call or a chat from a loved one or someone they know.

“We can’t underestimate the importance of that, and we can all play a part.”

The ongoing Covid-19 guidance, announced by Nicola Sturgeon, means that social gatherings should be kept to a minimum.

The First Minister also announced that no more than three households can gather hospitality venues.

Mr Sloan said the pandemic and it’s restrictions have only worsened the loneliness that is experienced by so many older people:

“The impact that Covid’s had on older people throughout the pandemic has been horrendous.

“The one point that you hope to celebrate, and enjoy time with family and friends, is Christmas. However, we know thousands of people are going to be on their own this Christmas.”

“Humans, by nature, are social animals. Some older people are going the best part of a week and longer without any form of social interaction. That really is a form of torture that, in this day and age, we shouldn’t have people experiencing.”

For the first time, Age Scotland will be keeping their Friendship Hotline open throughout the festive period, including Christmas day.

Anyone who wants to hear a friendly voice on the end of the phone to listen, provide friendship and offer support can call on 0800 1244 222.

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