Join the Mental Health & Wellbeing Show on Zoom from 10am – 12pm to learn ways we can tackle loneliness for ourselves and support other lonely people over Christmas.

Research commissioned by Age UK found that half a million older people across the UK are expecting to feel lonely this Christmas, of whom 4 in 5 (79%) have not sought any help for this. For half of those (52%), loneliness has become a ‘normal’ part of life.

The study also found that for more than half a million older people, Christmas isn’t something to look forward to because it brings back too many memories of people who have passed away and happier times.

In addition, more than 230,000 older people who will be on their own at least one day over the Christmas period (from Christmas Eve to New Year’s Day) say they have no choice, it’s just how it is. Against this context it is little surprise that more than 530,000 people aged 65 and over aren’t looking forward to Christmas because for them it’s ‘just another day.’

Although loneliness is by no means an inevitable part of ageing, difficult life events that many experience as people get older, such as bereavement, serious illness or reducing mobility, can all be triggers for becoming more isolated and feeling lonelier.

Speakers to be confirmed soon, if you feel like you could contribute to one of these free webinars please contact the Mental Health & Wellbeing Show on 02922 400382 or email events@ajuda.org.uk