Almost half of adults believe that spending time with your nearest and dearest is the most meaningful way to show you care at Christmas, it has been revealed.
However, a recent study has found that over the last five years, a quarter of Brits feel their levels of loneliness have increased, particularly during the festive period, with 49 per cent worrying about getting lonelier as they age.
The study found that 17 per cent will eat Christmas dinner alone and almost two thirds won’t get the chance to update friends and family about what is happening in their lives.
This research was commissioned by Hallmark, which also brought together a group of children to visit Horsforth Manor Care Home in Leeds, to teach them about loneliness at Christmas.
The children learnt the importance of reaching out to loved ones who may be missing them, and were told how hard it can be to feel alone at this time of year.
Ruth Turner-Blood, head of writing at the card company, said, “Christmas is often seen as a time of joy and togetherness, but for many people, feelings of loneliness can become particularly intense during the festive season.”
“There’s a clear contrast between the idealised image of a happy family celebration, and the reality some face but often, the smallest of gestures can make all the difference during the festive season.”
To combat loneliness during the festive season, 37 per cent of people plan to send a thoughtful card and a third will invite a loved one they are concerned about for a meal.
The study also revealed that 34 per cent will make a phone or video call to someone they can’t meet in person to help them feel less alone. Meanwhile, 44 per cent will specifically send a card to someone they believe will be feeling isolated.
Ruth Turner-Blood from Hallmark commented: “Something as simple as sending a thoughtful message in a card can show someone that they’re in your thoughts, especially if they’re feeling isolated.
“We want to help people feel more connected this festive season, showing how even the smallest of gestures can be meaningful to someone.”
TOP 10 THINGS PEOPLE ARE DOING TO HELP OTHERS FEEL LESS LONELY AT CHRISTMAS:
- Send a thoughtful card
- Invite them for a meal
- Share a small gift
- Cook a meal for them
- Include them in family events
- Arrange a surprise visit
- Plan a festive outing
- Offer a video call
- Create a care package
- Organise a group call