Elderly folk are often heard to say that they feel invisible. This phenomenon is magnified several times over Christmas when loneliness can be a crippling burden for many. As you prepare to spend time with your family this Christmas, please spare a thought for those who will have to spend this time on their own.
Of course, loneliness at Christmas is not the preserve of the elderly. But it strikes this section of our community particularly frequently. When the shops close, the roads empty and the sounds of family and friendship resonate from over the road, that’s when the loneliness and depression kicks in.
Perhaps your children or grand-children could read to an elderly neighbour, or spend some time simply listening to the inevitable stories of her youth. A gift delivered to the old man next door, or an invitation to share Christmas lunch with you, could be the greatest kindness he experiences all year.
Kerikeri Retirement Village will be open over Christmas and New Year. We’ll do our bit to ensure our single residents feel loved and engaged but if you feel like popping in to add extra sparkle to their Christmas please feel free to do so. More importantly, why not go the extra yard to bring a little festive cheer to someone nearby who could possibly do with a little extra love this Christmas.
Thank you. And here’s wishing you and yours all the joy of Christmas and a happy, successful and peaceful 2019.
