The Government have announced that from the 23rd – 27th December everyone will be able to form a ‘Christmas bubble’ with up to two different households.

To help older people understand what they can and cannot do over this period, Age UK have produced a webpage which clearly explains the new rules. You can access the document here. This includes information on:

• Travelling to form a bubble and staying overnight with your bubble
• Forming a bubble if you’re extremely clinically vulnerable
• Forming a bubble with someone living in a care home
• How to avoid catching coronavirus over Christmas

 Loneliness at Christmas – Age UK Support

Sadly, for many older people this Christmas will be a lonely one, with up to 850,000 older people likely to be by themselves. We can all help to make older people’s Christmas a bit happier by getting in touch with our older loved ones or sending them a card or small gift in the post.

Anyone who is feeling lonely and wants a friendly chat can call The Silver Line on 0800 470 8090. It’s open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – even on Christmas Day. You can also call the Age UK Advice Line free of charge on 0800 169 65 65 (8am-7pm 365 days a year).

Keep well this Winter

There are important simple steps older people can take to build and sustain their resilience in the months ahead. Age UK recommend that they:

•       Get their free flu vaccine
•       Look after their mental health
•       Keep moving and eat well