Why the Holidays are the Loneliest Time for Many Seniors—and How We Can Help

The holiday season brings images of family gatherings, warm meals, and joyful celebrations. But for many senior adults, this time of year can amplify feelings of loneliness and isolation. As traditions shift, families move, and mobility becomes more difficult, the holidays can become a painful reminder of what—and who—is missing.

Understanding why older adults struggle during this season can help us show up more intentionally and ease some of that emotional burden.

Why Loneliness Spikes During the Holidays

1. Changes in family dynamics: Many seniors experience smaller holiday gatherings as adult children build their own traditions or move away. While these changes are normal, they can leave older adults feeling forgotten or left out.

2. Loss of loved ones: The holidays often highlight grief. Seniors who have lost spouses, siblings, or lifelong friends may feel the absence more sharply in December.

3. Limited mobility or transportation: Even when seniors want to be involved, getting to gatherings can be difficult. Winter weather, vision changes, health concerns, and driving limitations can make celebrating feel out of reach.

4. Fewer social interactions: As daily routines slow down, seniors may experience fewer visits, fewer community activities, and far less connection. This quiet can quickly become isolating.

5. Seasonal mood changes: Shorter days and colder weather can affect mood and energy, making sadness or loneliness feel even heavier.

How We Can Help Seniors Feel Less Alone This Season

Loneliness isn’t inevitable. Here are simple, meaningful ways family, friends, and neighbors can bring comfort and connection to seniors during the holiday season:

1. Reach out often: A weekly phone call, holiday card, or brief visit can make an enormous difference. Small check-ins reassure seniors that someone is thinking of them.

2. Bring traditions to them: If traveling is difficult, bring the celebration to their home. Bake cookies together, decorate with them, or share a holiday meal in a cozy, low-stress environment.

3. Invite them into your plans: Even if they decline, simply inviting a senior shows that they matter. Include them in family events, church gatherings, or community celebrations.

4. Help them stay connected: Set up video calls, offer transportation to an event, or help them attend local holiday activities.

5. Encourage participation in companionship programs: If a senior in your life is especially isolated, consider connecting them with supportive programs like MyFriend’s Friends of the Family program. A consistent visitor can offer companionship not just during the holidays, but all year long.

Together, We Can Make the Holidays Brighter

No one should feel forgotten during the holiday season. With a little intention and kindness, we can make this time of year feel comforting and connected for the seniors in our community. Whether through a simple call, a shared meal, or a community program, your efforts can brighten someone’s season—and sometimes, even their life.

To get a senior involved or learn more about MyFriend’s programs, visit myfriendusa.org.