Christmas Spirit Alive and Well in Over-50s

While more than a million older people will be spending Christmas alone this year, many others have made themselves responsible for the food and drink bill their families will need to be festive. Research conducted by Saga, the over-50s financial company, has shown that more than half of the over-50s population in the UK will be paying for all the food and drink their families will consume during Christmas time.

The percentage is even higher for those bewteen 60 and 70, of whom 65% will be paying for the celebrations, while 56% of over 50s will do so. It is estimated that a total of £896 million will be given by older people, not only to their families, but also to their communities.

For Dr Ros Altmann, Director-General of Saga, this shows the spirit of generosity that remains, despite the economy. She said: “Despite the current alarming living costs faced by older people in the UK, these generations by and large don't stop giving.”

Despite the financial and living challenges faced by many of the older generation, many continue to help their children, grandchildren, and communities throughout the year – just one more reason to honor them for being an asset rather than labelling them a burden to society.

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