As we all busy ourselves preparing for the festive season, spare a thought for those older people in your community who may be on their own this Christmas, urges Age Cymru.

The charity’s research shows that 14,000 older people in Wales feel even more lonely at Christmas than they do at other times of the year; 2/5 of whom have been widowed.

Sadly more than 300,000 older people in Wales say their days are repetitive while 75,000 say Christmas day isn’t special for them anymore.

The charity’s research found that many older people become lonely through no fault of their own due to circumstances such as bereavement, families moving away, and losing contact with former work colleagues following retirement.

It also found that some older people fear becoming ill during the festive week as many health and social services operate reduced levels of provision.

Age Cymru’s interim chief executive Victoria Lloyd said, “If you know of an older person in your neighbourhood who may be alone this Christmas then why not pop round to offer some seasons’ greetings and tell them that should they need any support over the holidays that you will be there for them.

Such simple acts of kindness and reassurances can bring some festive joy and offer peace of mind to what can be a difficult time for many older people. It is after all the season of goodwill!”