Help people feel connected and pick the phone to give the a call
As The Herald launches its Tackling Loneliness series, here are 12 things you could do to help someone in your community this Christmas.
- Write a letter, Christmas card, or postcard or just drop a note through the door
- If you don’t know your neighbours, now is the perfect time to introduce yourself and let them know you’re there if they need help
- Offer to help with shopping or picking up prescriptions – with cold winter weather it can be even more difficult for many older people to get out
- Offer to help with pets, for example taking a dog for a walk
- Stay in regular touch with older friends and relatives by phone or video call
- If an older relative isn’t confident with technology, you could help them set up video calling on their smartphone or laptop so you can stay in touch
- Assist someone with setting up an online supermarket delivery
- Arrange to watch the same TV programme and call for a chat afterwards
- Make sure people have plenty of entertainment – for example you could drop off books, magazines or puzzles
- Drop off home-baking or a home-cooked meal to someone living alone
- Find safe ways to meet up, for example a chat on the doorstep or walk if the weather permits
- Don’t forget to smile and say hello when you’re out and about.
Compiled by Age Scotland.
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