Recent research we commissioned through Panelwizard shows that 26 percent of all Dutch people would prefer to skip the upcoming holidays. Strikingly, older people are less enthusiastic about all those December obligations. As many as 29 percent of those over fifty say they would rather stay home between Christmas and New Year's this year.

It is logical that people want to avoid the hustle and bustle: we have a lot to do, we need to be in many places at once, and expectations are often high. But besides those who want to escape the crowds, there is another, quieter group that becomes invisible during this period. These are the people who, against their will, receive no visitors and spend the holidays in loneliness.

Why some people are alone at Christmas

Loneliness during the holidays is rarely a simple choice, but rather the result of life circumstances:

1. Divorce: the days are divided. This can mean that the children are with one parent on one Christmas day and with the other on the next, leaving one parent alone for an entire holiday.

2. Loss of a partner: the traditional celebration disappears after the death of a partner. Although the children are there, they often have their own new families and holiday obligations, leaving the surviving parent alone in an uncomfortable way.

3. Shame: some people find it so difficult to admit they are alone that they decline invitations. They are afraid to acknowledge that they need company, which leads them to isolate themselves.

4. Illness or physical limitations: those with chronic illnesses or those who have recently undergone surgery may be unable to travel due to their physical condition. They are housebound and therefore unable to participate in celebrations away from home.

5. Mental health: conditions such as social anxiety, depression, or even severe burnout can make the threshold for participating in a Christmas celebration too high. The many stimuli, expectations, and social pressure simply make it impossible.

We can alleviate loneliness, if only for a while. Especially if we become aware of this group of people.

Imagine: Mrs. De Vries (85) would love to celebrate Christmas with the whole family, but she is in a wheelchair and her medication must be taken at specific times. Her family lives a 40-minute drive away and cannot pick her up in a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. The threshold for being away for a day is therefore too high, and she decides to stay home.

In such a situation, the 'company and assistance' service from Beep for Help can provide a solution. Our Superhelpers can keep you company during these quiet days at home. Playing a game together, going for a walk, or having coffee. Our Superhelpers can also take small household tasks off your hands or cook together so that the holidays pass a bit more smoothly.

Do you know someone who has to spend the holidays alone? Then enlist the help of Beep for Help! Everyone deserves a little warmth during the holidays.