Thousands of older people are spending these cold dark days of winter alone, with only their worries for company. It’s no wonder so many older people are now saying ‘I don’t know how much longer I can cope.’
That's more than 80,000 people. During the pandemic in 2020, 2.2 million people aged 60 and over had their wellbeing affected because they had no one to talk to about their worries.
81-year-old Beryl has been on her own since the death of her husband just a few months shy of their 50th wedding anniversary. A year of isolation, anxiety and now months of cold and darkness have made Beryl’s loneliness even worse.
"I sit all day on my own, I can't go out. It's really lonely. I often just sit here and think, 'God, what is going to happen to me?'"
By making a donation today you could help transform the lives of vulnerable older people like Beryl.
Our Age UK Advice Line and telephone friendship services are providing a lifeline for older people like Beryl this winter. She's been receiving regular friendship calls. Even on the bleakest days of the pandemic, these calls give her comfort, reassurance and the strength to carry on.
In the depths of what, for many, may be their hardest winter ever, you could make sure that older people have someone they can turn to – someone who will soothe their fears and give them support. Someone who cares. Thank you.
If you or someone you know needs support, Age UK is here for you. Call the Age UK Advice Line on 0800 169 6565, 8am to 7pm, every day of the year, or find information and advice on our website.
