Nearly one in three adults fear they’ll be lonely this festive period

NEARLY one in three adults fear they’ll be lonely this festive period, research has found.

A study of 2,000 adults who celebrate Christmas found over the last five years, a quarter feel their levels of loneliness have increased over the festive period – as 49 per cent worry about getting lonelier as they get older.

Unfortunately, 17 per cent will eat Christmas dinner alone, and 56 per cent won’t get the chance to update friends and family about changes to their life in the last year.

But to help combat loneliness at Christmas time, 37 per cent will send a thoughtful card and a third will invite a loved one they are worried about for a meal.

The research was commissioned by Hallmark, which also created a heartwarming video bringing children to visit older folks in Horsforth Manor Care Home in Leeds, to explore what it’s like being lonely at Christmas.

The adorable kids also learned how hard it can be to feel alone at this time of year and were told about the importance of reaching out to loved ones who may be missing them.

Ruth Turner-Blood, head of writing at the card company, said, “Christmas is often seen as a time of joy and togetherness, but for many people, feelings of loneliness can become particularly intense during the festive season.

“There’s a clear contrast between the idealised image of a happy family celebration, and the reality some face – but often, the smallest of gestures can make all the difference during the festive season.”

It also emerged 46 per cent of adults believe spending time with your nearest and dearest is the most meaningful way to show you care at Christmas.

And of those polled 44 per cent will specifically send a card to someone they think will be experiencing feelings of isolation.

The research, conducted via OnePoll, found 34 per cent will call or video chat with someone they can’t see in person to help combat loneliness.

Furthermore, half find the best way to make ourselves feel better throughout the Christmas period is a delicious festive lunch.

With 43 per cent adding that decorating the tree will put a smile on their faces.

Ruth Turner-Blood from Hallmark added: “Something as simple as sending a thoughtful message in a card can show someone that they’re in your thoughts, especially if they’re feeling isolated.

“We want to help people feel more connected this festive season, showing how even the smallest of gestures can be meaningful to someone.”