BLOG | How to prevent loneliness in your neighbourhood this Christmas.

The Christmas period is the busiest time of year for most of us but according to Age UK half a million older people across the UK are expected to feel lonely this Christmas.
Christmas is normally an exciting time of year for most people, but a recent study found that for more than half a million older people Christmas isn’t something to look forward to. This is because it brings back too many memories of people who have passed away and happier times.

Here at Embrace we have come up with a few simple tips on how to make someone, whether it’s a friend, a neighbour or just someone who you think could do with a bit of company, feel special over this festive period.

Invite them round for a cup of tea and a mince pie or offer to visit them.

Ask if they would like to go food shopping with you or if they would like you to pick up some shopping.

Send them a Christmas card, maybe with a personal message so they know someone is thinking of them.

Offer to help them put up their Christmas decorations, or if they don’t bother maybe invite them to help with yours as this will be something to look forward to.

If you have a spare half an hour, maybe pop round on Christmas morning to simply wish them a Merry Christmas. Even take them a box of chocolates or a bunch of flowers if you wish. If you struggle to find the time, a phone call would still be very appreciated.

If you have room around your table and you know that your neighbour will be alone on Christmas day, maybe invite them to share Christmas lunch with you? If this isn’t feasible maybe suggest for them to pop round after dinner for a mince pie and mulled wine.

If you struggle to find time over this busy month to keep others company, you could simply put them in touch with us at Embrace Home Care, as we can offer companionship or any type of care such as personal care, meal preparations, chauffeuring, trips & outings, light cleaning etc. (see on our website for our full list of services).

A word of caution.

Make sure you always introduce yourself properly.

Tell them where you live and who you are. Don’t be pushy as not everyone will feel comfortable with you straight away. If this is the case maybe leave your name, number or address with them and let them think about it.

Once you gain a relationship with your neighbour it’ll be much easier for you to pop round or do something nice for or with them.

Lastly, we urge anyone who is feeling lonely this Christmas and feels like they would benefit from some companionship to please contact us on 01253 543443. No one should feel alone this Christmas.