Christmas boost for the lonely

A Perth-based care home firm will open its doors to people facing Christmas Day alone.

The Balhousie Care Group, a leading provider of residential care, is liaising with Perth and Kinross Council and other local authorities to identify members of the community who could benefit from some companionship over the festive season.

Invitations are going out for people to share Christmas dinner and join in festivities at Balhousie Care Group’s 25 care homes across Scotland.

Operations director Louise Barnett said: “So many people, particularly the elderly, spend the festive season feeling isolated, with only a TV for company.

“We’re in the business of caring, and all 25 of our care homes already have close community partnerships. So it makes sense for us to open our doors to those who don’t have family or friends to be with this Christmas Day.

“Our care home managers across Scotland are liaising with their local authorities to identify those who may be feeling isolated, and invite them in.”

The move comes among reports of a worldwide “epidemic” of loneliness, which is affecting our health. In Scotland, the problem is particularly serious among the elderly, says the charity Age Scotland.

Research shows 60,000 older Scots will spend Christmas Day alone, an increase of around 50% on two years ago.