With the hustle and bustle of the festive season well and truly in full swing it only means that Christmas Day is fast approaching. This time of year is about spending time with family and friends and enjoying the company of others. By spreading the joy we can really help an elderly person who may be suffering from loneliness and depression. This time of year can be difficult for some.

Here are some tips on how to reach out to the elderly and how you can help tackle loneliness this Christmas.

1. Preparing for the big day – everybody loves a tree and a few decorations to really get into the spirit of things. Help your elderly neighbour put up a few decorations around their home. Simply offering help can make a huge difference to a person who may not be able to ask for it.
2. Receiving and sending Christmas cards is a real tradition and most elderly people are fond of this. Offer some help to an elderly person who may not be able to remember some addresses or make it to the post box. Send them a Christmas card so they feel included.
3. Assist with the Christmas shopping. Reduced mobility can make it difficult to walk around the shops and pick up a few things for the grand children. An hour out of your day would mean a lot to someone who would like to spend a few pennies on others.
4. Getting to and from church in cold conditions and on icy roads can be very dangerous for the elderly. Offer a lift to your neighbour who may want to attend the service.
5. Christmas Dinner can be lonely when you have no family or friends. Offer a seat at your table to a neighbour who may not have anybody to celebrate this joyess day with. There is no better gift than the company of others.