An appeal for greater care and empathy toward elderly people was made by the President of the Third Age Observatory, Dimos Antoniou, speaking on the television programme Protoselido, stressing that loneliness among older people is not a seasonal issue but a daily reality.
Mr Antoniou underlined that elderly loneliness is neither a myth nor an exaggeration, but a harsh truth experienced by many people every day. He made particular reference to elderly individuals living alone, those who have recently lost loved ones, and people spending their first Christmas with “one plate instead of two”.
Loneliness is a daily experience
According to Mr Antoniou, the Third Age Observatory operates a support network for individuals who simply need someone to talk to during the festive period. Psychologists work within the organisation, while trained volunteers provide psychosocial support. He stressed, however, that isolation among the elderly is not limited to holidays but is a constant condition for many.
Speaking with strong emotion, he noted that behind the bright shop windows and festive atmosphere, many homes remain in darkness. When an elderly person asks their children or grandchildren to visit, or to bring the babies along, it is not a formality, he said, but a deep expression of the need for presence, contact and human warmth.
Small acts, great impact
Mr Antoniou called on citizens to take action at neighbourhood level, emphasising that small gestures of solidarity can have enormous significance. An extra plate at the table, help with shopping, bills or household chores, or even a simple visit, can mean “the whole world” to an elderly person.
Special reference was also made to individuals with mobility issues or serious health problems. Where possible, he said, transport should be arranged so they can attend family gatherings, or alternatively, the festive atmosphere should be brought into their own homes.
A reminder about empathy
In closing, the President of the Third Age Observatory stressed that empathy is what is missing from modern society, which he described as trapped in routine and often forgetting the essentials: love, kindness and human presence. He reminded viewers that awareness often comes too late, when a person passes away and all that remains is regret for the time that was not given.
Also read: Fire Service on high alert in Paphos district due to severe weather
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
