ALONE encourages older people to exercise their own judgement and in their best interest when it comes to gatherings this Christmas

Reports from ALONE’s National Support line and through their Winter check-in calls, suggest that many older people have increased concerns about the usual social activities surrounding the Christmas season. Older people do not want to put themselves at risk and are worried about meeting up with family over the Christmas period. Some have even reported that they are feeling obliged to do so to avoid upsetting family members. Traditionally, where many older people would’ve travelled far and wide to spend the Christmas period with their families, they are choosing to exercise caution and spend the holiday season alone to protect themselves.

The organisation have reported many older people expressing concerns about social interactions this Christmas

ALONE, the organisation that supports older people to age at home, is asking members of the public to be mindful of older people’s concerns, while also respecting their choices, especially if they are apprehensive about seeing friends or relatives over the festive period.