MORE than 150,000 older Scots can’t afford Christmas this year, according to analysis by a charity. Age Scotland says the research also suggests more than one in 10 over-65s expect to feel lonely this Christmas.
As people prepare to gather with friends and family freely for the first time since 2019, the charity estimates that more than 70,000 older people aged over 65 have nobody to spend Christmas with, and over 5000 won’t speak to anyone on Christmas Day.
Analysis based on nNew research conducted by Age UK has found that more than one in 10 over-65s in Scotland expect to feel lonely this Christmas. The charity estimates this to be the equivalent of 122,000 older people in Scotland.
While loneliness can be more acute over the winter months, the current cost of living crisis is making things even more difficult for older people, with analysis also revealing that more than 150,000 older Scots (15% of over-65s) can’t really afford Christmas this year.
The impact of loneliness and isolation can contribute to serious physical and mental health concerns among older people, increasing the risk of heart disease, dementia, strokes and premature death, as well as leading to depression.
The charity is calling on everyone to reach out to older friends, relatives and neighbours, as almost 40% of over-65s say a call from a friend or loved one would help them feel less lonely this Christmas.
Age Scotland’s interim chief executive, Michelle Supple, said: “While many of us are looking forward to spending the festive season with family and friends, for so many older people, Christmas will just be another day spent by themselves. It’s heartbreaking to think of thousands of over-65s in Scotland not speaking to anyone on Christmas Day, instead relying on TV or radio for company.
“With the cost of energy and other essentials much higher than in previous years, many will also be facing additional pressure in heating their homes or making sure they are eating enough.
“A strong sense of community spirit helped many older people through lockdown periods, and we urge everyone to continue looking out for older friends, relatives and neighbours this Christmas too."
Age Scotland is aiming to tackle loneliness through initiatives such as a gift appeal, delivering cards and gifts to older people across Scotland as well as a Friendship Line, making calls to those who may otherwise spend Christmas alone.
Supple added: “Sending a card, popping by for a chat or a cup of tea, or picking up the phone to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while could make all the difference to an older person spending the festive period on their own.
Money is tight, but reaching out doesn’t have to cost anything.
“Age Scotland’s free Friendship Line is also available on 0800 12 44 222. A call costs just £5 and demand for our vital service is increasing but, with the help of donations, we are determined to be there for older people who need us."
