"adopting" an elderly person for christmas

[funkychicken]

Not sure if this is the right place but here goes....my mum has decided we should "adopt" an elderly person for christmas, like come round for christmas dinner and spend the day with us. Are there any schemes for this kind of thing? We don't know any elderly people who would otherwise be on their own, but would like to make christmas a happier time for somebody. Any ideas?

[PatriciaH]

Try age concern they maybe able to point you in the right direction- thats a lovely kind thought, good luck and if you do invite someone let us know how you got on, good luck

[Buenchico]

Age Concern was my first thought but it's possible that your local branch might arrange their own Christmas function for the elderly.

My second though was your local Social Services department but I suspect that, if you approach them, you'll be told that they can't put you in touch with anyone because of the Data Protection Act!

So, what's my suggestion? The local vicar (or other church minister) might be the best person to speak to. I'm sure that he/she won't mind whether you're religious or not (i.e. you won't suddenly find yourself pressursed to attend a Christmas service if you don't want to). He/she will just be grateful for your generous offer.

Chris


PS: Given the nature of your question (and your generous disposition), I hope that you won't think that it's too early for me to wish you a very merry Christmas!

[stanleyman]

Well it is a great idea so don't get me wrong but old people aren't just for Christmas. They are still people with feelings, pride and independance and may not want to visit a stranger and you may not even like them!

Perhaps you could get to know someone before and that way they will enjoy themselves much more with someone familiar or you could help out at a local hospital or old folks home. There are many who get no visitors at all.

We usually have the mother in law for Christmas but I much prefer a Turkey.

[VINNY100_2]

Its a great idea..But please dont kick her out ...as the Clock strikes twelve!!..I can just imagine an old Biddy..high on sherry ..gliding down the road ..glinging .desperately
.to her Zimmer frame...cant she stay over night...Robinia's quite ..good...company...you know..( :)and she's house trained..!old Biddys arnt just for xmas!!

[funnywebsite]

Sounds a lovely idea. If you can't find someone go to the pub and invite a few old people back for dinner. You can bet there are old people sitting on their own who won't have any Xmas dinner to look forward to.

[maggie01]

Do you have an elderly neighbor that is on their own. That way, you may not necessarily know them too well, but they wouldn't feel a complete stranger. It's a bit daunting for someone to be welcomed into you home if they have never met you before. Its a kind thought and I hope you find someone to share you Christmas.

[Solarjunkie]

What a great idea. Other sources of info incude the local post office (they may know of someone who picks their pension & may have mentioned a lonely Christmas) and the local doctors or health visitors. Even if they can't tell you directly who they have in mind, there are ways! ;-)

[allen63b]

It's a great idea but I can't help thinking that it's a bit patronising so the jury is still out with me!