While Christmas is often celebrated as a season of warmth, laughter, and togetherness, for many older people in the UK it can be a lonely time. According to Age UK, nearly 1.5 million older adults feel more isolated at Christmas than at any other time of the year.
Paul Adams of Cognatum explains:
“The reasons are varied: families spread across the country, friends lost over time, and the physical or financial barriers that make travel and socialising harder with age. What was once a bustling day of family meals and grandchildren’s excitement can, for some, become a quiet and isolating one.
“While our retirement estates offer the older generation a safe and secure environment, free of many of the responsibilities of maintaining a home, they also provide a supportive community, with opportunities for connection and socialising, bringing people together and combating isolation.”
At The Rivus, Cognatum’s estate for over 55s in Wantage, residents enjoy a lively festive season. Marion, who has lived there for over two years, says:
“We used to live in a big house, with a large garden, in an area where we rarely met or saw our neighbours. At The Rivus it’s quite different, it’s like being part of a large family. The other residents are so friendly, and we have a lot of fun.
“There are plenty of organised events; there’s a growing number of clubs such as bridge, and chess; and there are people with shared interests who can go walking, cycling or do yoga together. There’s an informal Friday night gathering which is very sociable; but if you want company at any time of day, there’s always somebody in one of the communal areas who’s up for a chat.”
To celebrate the festive season, The Rivus is hosting a Christmas carols evening on Thursday 11 December from 6.30pm to 8.00pm. The local choir Wantage Sings will perform, with mulled wine and mince pies available, providing the perfect opportunity for residents and locals to sing along and enjoy the festive spirit.
Adams adds:
“Most of our organised events are open to locals; it’s a great way of integrating with the wider community, increasing our own residents’ networks and relationships.
“Our job is as much about helping residents establish networks of like-minded friends as it is about ensuring their safety and comfort. We combine independence with sociability. There’s no pressure to participate, but the opportunities for connection are ever-present.”
The Rivus offers one- and two-bedroom apartments with easy maintenance and a worry-free lifestyle, supported by a dedicated estate manager.
RSVP for the carols evening via rivussales@cognatum.co.uk or 07548 558801.
