We are not meant to exist on our own, we are not solitary creatures but social ones. It is a very sad fact that over one million older people say they feel lonely at Christmas. Loneliness is a feeling that can descend on people from any walk of life at any time.
The causes of loneliness may increase as we get older, particularly if a person has been through a divorce or separation, loss of a loved one, lives somewhere where they don’t know the neighbours, or those suffering from physical or mental health challenges.
We often feel the pressure to be happy around Christmas time, constantly confronted with images of loved up couples and contented families from the media. However, Christmas can be a very tough time for those who live alone or not close to family.
If you don’t want to spend Christmas on your own and you are not sure what to do, consider the things you enjoy. Maybe it’s watching your favourite movies while engaging in your favourite snack or taking a walk in the brisk winter air while wrapped up warmly.
Here are some other ideas:
If you know of other people who are also alone at Christmas, you can suggest that you go out to eat or even arrange a get-together where everyone brings part of Christmas dinner.
Maybe you have always fancied giving back a little bit, in which case there are many soup kitchens who are always looking for volunteers at Christmas time, this way you will meet new people and have some wonderful company of like-minded people. If you visit Do-it.org it shows you where your nearest volunteer centre is located.
Moving to a residential park home site can give you access to a neighbourhood of lots of like-minded people and social activities. For more information on Park Homes for Sale in Bedfordshire, visit a site like http://www.parkhomelife.com/our-parks/pine-view-park/
If you have cash available you can treat yourself by booking a holiday and go exploring for a few days.
If you find it difficult, to reach out and chat with friends or family members and let them know how you feel. However, there are those who might actually prefer to spend Christmas on their own and that’s fine too.
Maybe you could invite those in your neighbourhood or other people who you know will be on their own for a Christmas meeting, if you are already hosting a get-together – then the more the merrier!
If you have invited someone over for Christmas, be aware that it can be difficult to watch a family opening presents, so it might be a good idea to invite them to a part of the day so they don’t feel like they are intruding too much.
