Christmas is a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration—a season that brings families and communities together to share warmth, laughter, and cherished traditions.
While the season emphasises connection and family, there are countless individuals who find themselves isolated, living alone without the companionship and support they once had.
With public services winding down, shops closing early, harsher weather, shorter days, and changes in health, staying connected becomes even harder during this period.
While many enjoy festive traditions, Age UK found that a quarter (3.4 million) of over 65s won’t put up decorations this year, and 1.4 million will spend Christmas dinner alone. For 2 million older people, Christmas feels just like any other day, making it a difficult time.
Age UK’s latest report, ‘You Are Not Alone in Feeling Lonely’, highlights the extent of loneliness among those aged 65 and over. It reveals that 270,000 older people in England go an entire week without speaking to a friend or family member.
Loneliness significantly affects older people's health, well-being, and quality of life, increasing frailty and the risk of physical and mental health issues. Simple gestures like regular phone calls, visits, or daily assistance can make a profound difference, offering connection, reassurance, and the reminder that they are valued and not alone
Asian Voice has spoken to a few organisations and a social worker to explore the issue of elderly loneliness and the role communities can play in addressing it.
Social groups step up to tackle elderly isolation
CEO of Re-engage, Jenny Willott said, “Loneliness can have a profound and devastating impact on older people across all sections of society. That’s why we warmly invite anyone aged 75 and over to join our free tea parties, activity groups, or call-befriending services. In Wolverhampton, one of our groups meets regularly at a Gurdwara, where they enjoy a wonderful time making new friends and sharing delicious food.
"We are also eager to expand our services to better meet the needs of the Asian community in the future. To achieve this, we hope to collaborate with organisations that share our vision of creating meaningful connections for older people.”
CEO of Together Co, April Baker highlighted the impact of loneliness, especially during Christmas, which can be a particularly difficult time for many. She shared that Together Co, with the help of over 450 volunteers, provides befriending and social prescribing services to connect people with their community, improving their social health and well-being. She said, “In Brighton and Hove, where up to 22,000 people often or always feel lonely, their volunteers gave over 14,000 hours last year, supporting more than 2,300 people. This December, their Winter Warmer event brought 160 people together—those they support, volunteers, and the business community—to foster friendships and strengthen connections. For housebound individuals, hampers with gifts donated by local businesses were delivered, reminding them they are valued and not alone.”
CEO of Age UK, Paul Farmer emphasised that around 10.6 million older people—four in five—believe spending time with loved ones is one of the most cherished parts of Christmas. However, many face the festive season alone. Age UK focuses on supporting older people through campaigns, advice, and assistance, but sometimes a simple listening ear can make the biggest difference. He urged people to reconsider their holiday routines by spending time with older relatives, friends, or neighbours, particularly those living alone. Small gestures like sending a card, attending a local social event hosted by Age UK, or donating to their campaign can bring comfort and connection during the festive period.
Twickenham family creates a holiday hub for all
Shashi and Pallu Patel, from Twickenham, have opened their newsagent shop, ‘Meet & Deep News’. Each Christmas, hundreds of visitors come to enjoy Christmas carols played by Shashi, Pallu, and their sons, Meeten and Deepen, share food, and connect with others in a warm, welcoming space.
Deepen Patel shared how his parents' efforts on Christmas Day have positively impacted the local community: "My parents have supported the community over the years by creating a welcoming space for those who might otherwise spend Christmas alone. By opening the shop on Christmas Day, they’ve provided a safe, comfortable, and free place for people to gather, share food and drinks, and celebrate together. It’s more than just a shop—it’s become a community hub where everyone can feel a sense of belonging, connect with others, and experience the joy of the season. Their efforts ensure that no one feels isolated on this special day."
Reflecting on special moments from the shop during the holidays, Deepen shared, “Every year, special stories unfold at our shop. Last year, two lonely elderly women, Elizabeth and Sohinda, visited regularly but always alone. During a holiday event, I introduced them, despite their initial shyness. As they were leaving, Elizabeth mentioned her childhood friend from Sohinda’s street 60 years ago. Remarkably, Sohinda recognised the name—they had been best friends in school but hadn’t seen each other in 70 years. They hugged, cried, and shared photos, and now meet regularly, rekindling their long-lost friendship. Our Christmas party has become a space where loneliness fades and moments of kindness create what many call ‘Christmas miracles.’”
He continued, “Every Christmas, we try to bring joy to those in need. One year, an elderly woman with Leukaemia, whose birthday falls on Christmas Day, shared that no one had ever celebrated her birthday. My mom invited her to our party, and we surprised her with a cake and 70 people singing ‘Happy Birthday.’ She said it was the best birthday she ever had, bringing her to tears. Another year, Dorothy, a lonely elderly woman, was devastated after being robbed of £800 by scammers pretending to check her boiler. Having endured a heart-breaking past—abandoned by her adoptive parents at 14 for not being ‘pretty enough’—she had little hope. We rallied the community to collect gifts, and on Christmas Day, my dad dressed as Father Christmas and presented her with a sack of presents. She said what could have been her worst Christmas became her best, thanks to our efforts.”
Deepen added, “We also host games, serve mince pies, and offer samosas and masala chai—our community’s favourite tradition. These moments make the season truly special.”
Power of togetherness and care
Ajmer Kaur, 92, from Wolverhampton, shared, “I lost my husband 35 years ago and all my siblings since. I have four children, but my daughter lives abroad. As you age, you become more detached, and while I’m fortunate my family cares for me, many don’t have that support. Christmas can be especially lonely, as it brings back memories of loved ones. The sense of loss and quiet reflection can be emotionally difficult. For those without family, this time of year can be isolating. Even small gestures, like a kind conversation or checking in, can make a big difference.”
She highlighted how South Asian communities in the UK can better support those alone during the holidays, “Times have changed, and many are so busy that the sense of community has been lost. While providing support can be expensive, small gestures—like offering a hot meal to elderly individuals who can’t cook—can make a big difference. Neighbours once looked out for one another, and reviving that spirit of care could go a long way. Although we no longer live in large family units as in India, I encourage children to check in on their elders and make time for them.”
She added, “We often don’t realise how much we can learn from our elders until they’re gone. Caring for them and cherishing these moments is one of the greatest acts of Seva (selfless service) we can perform.”
Ajmer spoke about community events that help combat isolation, saying, “I am part of the Sant Zora Singh Lopon Charitable Trust UK, which gives me a strong sense of community and belonging. Regular religious gatherings and afternoon tea events at the Sant Ashram in Wolverhampton bring people from different backgrounds together in a welcoming, inclusive environment. These events allow me to connect with others, strengthen my faith, and experience the same sense of community we rely on so deeply in India. The volunteers are incredibly supportive, and being part of this community keeps me connected and reminds me of the power of togetherness.”
Role of family and community in reducing loneliness
Operations Team Lead - HR - UoB and Volunteer at the Sant Zora Singh Lopon Charitable Trust UK, Mandeep Rana highlights the challenges older individuals face during Christmas, especially within the South Asian community. She said, “For many elderly individuals, this time of year can be particularly difficult. In South Asian cultures, we are taught to respect and care for our elders, and traditionally, large families live together. However, this isn’t always the case, and many elderly people find themselves living alone, without the family support they once had. As Christmas emphasises togetherness, this can make their loneliness even more profound.”
She added, “For those without loved ones nearby, the silence and isolation can feel especially hard during Christmas, when everyone else is celebrating. The cold weather also limits their ability to go outdoors. Showing kindness, reaching out, and being mindful of those who may feel forgotten can make a real difference to their lives.”
Discussing cultural factors, Mandeep underscored how the strong emphasis on family and community in South Asian traditions shapes how older adults experience loneliness. She said, “Traditionally, multigenerational households offer support, and older adults often expect to live with their children or extended family as they age. When these expectations are unmet, it can lead to feelings of disconnection and loneliness. There is also a stigma around mental health that prevents many older individuals from speaking openly about loneliness, as admitting it may be seen as a sign of weakness or a burden on loved ones. While community and religious gatherings provide vital emotional support, attending regularly can be challenging due to mobility issues, language barriers, or cultural differences. These barriers often limit access to social networks or support services, discouraging older South Asians from seeking the help available to them.”
Discussing the role younger generations in South Asian families can play in reducing isolation for older relatives or neighbours, she said, “Simple gestures can have a huge impact. Volunteering with charities that support the elderly, making regular phone calls, or checking in can make a real difference. Offering to accompany them to places of worship, community centres, or local events can help them feel connected to their roots and encourage social participation. Practical help—like providing transport to appointments, running errands, or helping with shopping—can ease their daily challenges. Many older individuals share that they struggle to prepare meals and often go without eating. Taking the time to cook and drop off a simple meal is more than just providing food—it’s an act of care that reminds them they are not alone.”
She added, “Teaching older relatives how to use technology can also open doors for them to connect with distant friends and family, bridging physical and emotional gaps. Most importantly, be empathetic and understanding. One day, we’ll be in their shoes, and the kindness we show now can create a ripple effect of connection and care. Small acts of love and support can transform someone’s day—or even their life—in ways we may not fully realise.”
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Bringing warmth to the vulnerable
At Christmas, while loneliness affects many, homelessness remains a pressing issue, leaving countless individuals struggling during the festive season. With no warm place to stay or share the holiday spirit, these individuals face additional challenges. Efforts to support them through kindness, community gatherings, and shared resources can bring warmth, hope, and a sense of belonging during this special time of year.
British-Pakistani food entrepreneur, restaurateur, and activist, Suleman Raza MBE said, “Christmas is a time of joy, togetherness, and giving—a season that transcends faiths and brings communities closer. At Spice Village, we believe in the universal values of compassion and kindness that this season embodies. As Muslims, we see Christmas not only as a moment to celebrate with our Christian friends and neighbours but as an opportunity to reflect on shared humanity and extend a helping hand to those in need. This year, through our ‘No One Eats Alone’ campaign, we’re bringing this spirit to life with a special Christmas stall outside our Southall branch on December 25th.”
“The stall will offer free meals, grocery rations, and warm essentials like jackets and sweaters to those who are struggling. This initiative is about more than charity—it’s about spreading warmth, hope, and dignity to those who often feel forgotten during the holidays. Inspired by our belief that food connects people, we want to ensure no one goes hungry or feels alone. At Spice Village, our values of generosity, inclusivity, and community service guide everything we do. As Muslims, we are taught to care for the vulnerable and uphold kindness regardless of faith or background. Campaigns like ‘One Million Meals’ and this Christmas initiative reflects our commitment to these teachings,” he added.
