Isolation can feel unbearable, particularly at Christmas

Many older people live alone and face periods of feeling incredibly isolated, particularly after the loss of a loved one. Without regular interaction with friends or the support of a partner, they can feel lonely and sad, a situation that was made worse for many during and immediately after the pandemic.

For some, community centres like our Age UK WSBH’s Lamb House become a lifeline, helping them get active, reconnect, and tackle the loneliness they feel. By immersing themselves in activities like seated exercise, Tai Chi, art clubs, and lunches, they can meet old and new friends, find excitement in special events, and bring variety back into their routines. Our centres play a vital role in helping older people rediscover joy and connection.

Last year, Age UK research showed that nearly 240,000 older people in the South East were expected to feel lonely at Christmas, with many saying that the season brings up memories of loved ones who have died.

Instead of looking forward to a festive period filled with friendship, celebrations and joy, thousands of older people across the UK are facing Christmas feeling lonely, isolated and forgotten.

Bereavement and loneliness can feel unbearable, particularly around the festive season. Please help Age UK WSBH be there for older people this Christmas, and beyond.

By donating today, you can help older people to feel less alone this Christmas.

Ron has been coming to one of our centres throughout the year and feels it has been life changing.

“I’ve been on my own for 35 years, since my wife died. When a friend recommended Age UK WSBH to me, I thought I’d give it a try as it was on my doorstep. I could also get my lunch here sometimes. Obviously, I’ve been making my own lunch for years, but cooking for myself all the time was getting a bit of a drag.

I’ve ended up coming three days a week. The food is lovely. I never know what I’m going to get, but it’s always great home cooking in a really nice atmosphere. The staff and volunteers are all so welcoming.

I’ve tried a few of the classes. Tai Chi and pilates weren’t really for me, but the chair aerobics is actually really good. I initially pooh-poohed it, thinking you couldn’t do much while sitting down, but the instructor does put you through it, in a gentle sort of way, and I do feel a lot of benefit from it. I’m also learning to play Bridge which I enjoy.

I’m not really a chatty sort of person, but I do look forward to coming to the centre as part of my social life. Has it changed my life? Yes, it has… I don’t quite know what I’d do without it now.”

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