Living with osteoporosis: staying connected over the festive season

Earlier this year for our ‘Life with Osteoporosis 2021’ study, people told us about some of the ways osteoporosis affects everyday life. In the study, they shared with us some of their experiences of managing severe, long-term pain, as well as coping with a persistent fear of fractures and the impact on relationships and social lives. 33% of people said they feel at least a little socially isolated as a result of their osteoporosis.

Pain, mobility issues, fear of fracturing, fatigue, low mood and a lack of confidence mean that many people living with osteoporosis stop or reduce taking part in social activities. This can be particularly difficult during the festive season, when there is often a greater focus on socialising, and can add to feelings of loneliness and isolation.

To support you at this time, we’ve put together some tips on staying connected, including some helpful services run by other charities.

Feel connected

Talking to family or friends online is a great way to feel connected when you’re unable to meet in person. If you lack confidence with technology, there are many online courses on how to use email or virtual meeting spaces like Zoom or FaceTime. Age UK have several courses on their website dedicated to empowering people to use technology to connect with their loved ones. Find them here.

If you are physically able to go outside, getting some fresh air can be a good way to feel connected to your community. Even a small act of waving to a neighbour or passing dogwalker can help.

Reach out

The Silver Line has a Befriending helpline that’s open 24 hours a day, including Christmas Day. Ringing for a friendly chat can really help with feeling that all-important human connection. The charity ReEngage, holds events and activities for people spending time alone over Christmas. There may be events already organised by their volunteers in your local area. Age UK offers opportunities to volunteer your time, which is another way to help feel connected.

Take time for yourself

Celebrate the festive season in a different way, if it suits you. It can help to switch off from what ‘should’ be done and take time to treat yourself or do an activity which makes you feel good.

For more information on the services mentioned, please see below:

The Silver Line

Befriending helpline 0800 470 80 90 open 24hrs a day 365 days a year

https://www.thesilverline.org.uk/

Age UK

Find out about volunteering https://www.ageuk.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer/

ReEngage

Community events at Christmas https://www.reengage.org.uk/support-us/community-christmas

0800 716543

Samaritans

Call 116 123, open 24hrs a day 365 days a year