Age Scotland works tirelessly to make older people feel less alone this Christmas.
Across Scotland, there is a chronically lonely person on every street. That means over 100,000 people over 65 who feel lonely most or all of the time. They will be alone this Christmas.
One of those people is Alex. A retired engineer with an international career, when Alex returned to his home in Motherwell in 2007, he felt increasingly isolated with no local connections.
I’ve lived on my own since I came back to Scotland. I don’t have any family or friends around now. The reality is that so many people fall away from your life as you get older. And before you know it, you’re on your own.
Alex is suffering from ill health now and doesn’t get out and about as much as he used to. Other than his friendship calls from Age Scotland, Alex says he wouldn't speak to anyone on Christmas Day.
Another lonely person is Hazel. From Dumbarton, the 69-year-old has lost both her parents and partner and is facing Christmas on her own.
I don’t have a Christmas dinner. I get myself a meal for one. I don’t put up any Christmas decorations.
Everybody else is happy and they are happy with their families. I see people out Christmas shopping but I don’t have anyone to buy for.
Like Alex, Hazel would not speak to anyone on Christmas Day if it wasn't for the Age Scotland Friendship call.
Last Christmas I got a friendship call on Christmas Day and it was brilliant. It was so lovely to have someone to talk to, someone who asked questions and was open to listening to me.
Alex, 72
▶️ Hear Alex's Story In Full
Read Hazel's Story In Full
If you are able, please consider making a donation so Age Scotland can continue to provide friendship and advice for years to come. You can make an online donation* above, or, if you prefer, you can do this over the telephone. Please call us on 03330 15 14 60, and we can assist you with your donation or setting up a regular gift. Our lines are open from 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday.
*A small fee applies to online transactions. Age Scotland provides a range of services, and your gift will go where the need is greatest.