A new report has exposed the rising blight of isolation and loneliness among Scotland’s senior citizens.
The research by Age Scotland has revealed that 60,000 people aged over 65 – a 50% increase on the 2015 figure – will spend Christmas Day without any company, either in person or on the phone.
A spokeswomen for the organisation said more than 10,000 of that number live in Grampian and the Highlands and islands.
According to the study, people across the UK admit they feel lonelier at Christmas than at any other time of year, with those who have been widowed particularly at risk. Many of the respondents said they keep their television set on for as long as they are awake, because “it’s lovely to hear human voices”.
Today, Age Scotland has launched its Christmas campaign “No one should have no one” to highlight the extent of the problem across the country, and act as the catalyst for people to take action in their communities.
The findings of their survey illustrate why the Press and Journal launched its own campaign, Share the Cheer, to encourage readers to spend more time with neighbours who might otherwise be cut off from the rest of the world.
Almost one in 10 older people said they will spend half or more of their days alone over the Christmas period, without even a phone call or visit from a friend or relative.
We’re asking you to pop in on a neighbour, friend or relative – even just for a cup of tea or to drop off messages – to cheer them up over the festive period and beyond.
Age Scotland cited retirement, the death of a partner, or poor health as the principal reasons why so many feel socially isolated. Mobility issues, a lack of confidence, and access to transport were some of the other factors preventing people from taking part in their communities.
Chief executive Brian Sloan said: “The epidemic of loneliness among older people is having a devastating impact on their health and wellbeing. While most of us are looking forward to spending the festive period with family or friends, it’s sobering to think 60,000 older Scots will have only their television for company. Many more will go for days without a visit or even a phone call from family or friends.
“It’s heart-breaking that so many people lose their confidence and sense of self-worth as they get older.
“It’s especially bad over the winter, as the cold weather and icy pavements make more people afraid to leave their homes. Many of them feel depressed and anxious, but are embarrassed to let people know they need some extra help.”
Age Scotland’s helpline provides free advice, support and community connecting services on 0800 12 44 222.
‘Sad reading’
Age Scotland’s shocking study was described as “sad reading” by another charity last night – but they hope it encourages people to make the effort to befriend a lonely neighbour.
Morna O’May, head of service (Scotland) at Contact the Elderly, said: “Age Scotland’s latest report makes for very sad reading. The epidemic of loneliness is the biggest issue facing our ageing population and it is the responsibility of our society as a whole to do something about that.
“I would urge anyone reading this and feeling the prick of their social conscience to do something. Lives can be busy, but there is always a little time to do some good – particularly during the festive period.
“Our wonderful network of volunteers throughout the north-east and the Highlands are doing outstanding work in breaking the cycle of social isolation.
“Offering a vital lifeline of friendship is easier than many may think. Our volunteers give just a few hours once a month, or once a year in some cases, and make an immeasurable difference to the lives of older people who live alone.
“They say a cup of tea can cure all and, in the case of loneliness among older people, this has certainly been proven to be true time and time again.”
GET INVOLVED
The P&J launched its Share the Cheer campaign to encourage readers to spend time with a lonely neighbour, friend or relative.
It could be half an hour spent chatting over a cup of tea, dropping off shopping, or even putting up the Christmas decorations.
Many charities and groups across the north and north-east organise Christmas parties for those who would otherwise have nobody to mark the festive season with, and we would like to highlight those events – and the people behind them.
You may already be a befriender, and want to share your story to encourage others in your area to get involved.
Or you could even be someone who knows just how lonely it can be at this time of year, but now has someone who drops in to keep you company.
Share your stories with us, and help us spread the cheer – not just over the festive period, but into 2018.
E-mail pj.newsdesk@ajl.co.uk or call 01224 343311.