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As people age, the chances of experiencing loneliness increase. According to the World Health Organization, globally more older women than men live alone, a primary cause of loneliness.
As the summer holiday season draws near, even people who don’t often experience loneliness may begin to feel down. Being sensitive to the reasons can go a long way to helping the older people around you feel less isolated. Older people may experience one, some, or all of the following:
spouses, family, friends, and neighbours have passed away or are sick.
energy levels and mobility decrease, making it impossible to host huge gatherings. This loss of independence and opportunity to organise holiday celebrations can make older people feel they are a burden
neighbourhoods change and local activities change with them
customs like writing holiday cards or festive baking are difficult
fewer holiday cards arrive, and they often bring news of illness or losses
holidays are becoming more secular and less focused on supportive, faith-based communities.
changes in traditions – from music, activities, food, and even dressing up – can lead to feelings of nostalgia
medication or health issues may not allow older people to imbibe or fully enjoy all the special food and drinks of the season
Being aware that people may be feeling lonely, even when they’re surrounded by family and friends, is the first step to supporting older people during the holidays.
Next, take action to help them look forward to and enjoy everything the holidays bring. Here are some ideas:
find out what holiday activities or traditions are important to them
help them write holiday cards, or take mail to the post office for them
if they want to give gifts, take them shopping or help them make their purchases. Showing them websites for popular retailers gives older people the ability to make their own selections even if they’re not up to shopping
ask them to tell you their favourite holiday memories
unpack their holiday decorations and help them put them up – and pack them away later on
look through photo albums with them and ask questions about the people and holiday activities in the photos
include older people in the planning of family gatherings and ask their opinion on menu and drink choices. Make sure to include some of their choices in the day
if they have a favourite holiday dish they like to make, support them as much as needed to reproduce it
make their favourite holiday music part of the celebration.
arrange for them to go to religious services.
help them plan how to get to family or holiday gatherings and ensure they have a way to get back home
if they find travelling difficult, visit them and bring children and pets (if allowed)
have a gift for them, even if they say they don’t need or want anything. Family photos, home-cooked meals for the freezer, or help getting to community activities are always good choices for someone who doesn’t want gifts