83-Year-Old and Canadian Volunteer Bridge 3,500 Miles to Combat Loneliness

Thanks to the incredible work of the Adopt A Grandparent charity, an inspiring friendship has flourished across the Atlantic, bridging 3,500 miles between Nuneaton and Ontario.

Ann Lucas, 83, a resident of Acorn Lodge Care Home, in Nuneaton, since 2023 and Angela Martin, 47, who lives in Canada, have forged a unique connection that transcends borders and generations.

Despite having never meet in person, the pair talk weekly through video calls, proving that distance is no barrier to meaningful relationships.

The Adopt a Grandparent initiative, a beacon of hope aimed at combating loneliness among care home residents, facilitated their heartwarming connection.

According to Age UK, 1.4 million older people in the UK are often lonely.

In a report from Gov.uk, 200,000 older people in the UK hadn’t had a conversation with a friend or relative in more than a month.

Ann, who is not married and has lost her three sisters, has found comfort through technology by forming a cherished relationship with Angela and her family.

Since July, Ann and Angela have been regularly chatting. Originally from London, Ann has a deep affection for Canada, as her late sister Barbara once lived there.

“Talking with Angela has been truly wonderful. We got on immediately, and it feels like I’ve known her forever,” Ann shared. “Her support has been immense, and I’m deeply grateful to her and the Adopt A Grandparent charity.”

Angela’s husband and children often join the calls to speak with Ann, sharing photos and letters from Canada. This inspired Ann to visit her local library to learn more about Canada, and she is now preparing a letter filled with stories and family photos to share in return from Nuneaton.

Angela said she was attracted to volunteering with the charity after learning that many older people do not have regular contact with friends or family members.

She said, “I thought that was heartbreaking.”

Angela continued, “Meeting Ann has exceeded our expectations! We love hearing her stories and perspectives. Her wisdom and positivity have enriched our lives.”

Julia Reeves, Well-Being Co-ordinator at Acorn Lodge Care Home, who played a crucial role in facilitating Ann’s involvement with the charity, added, “It’s been so lovely to see the friendship between Ann and Angela.”

“Angela’s positive and friendly nature has encouraged Ann to share her life stories, which has greatly enriched Ann’s social life and rekindled many joyful memories and laughter.”

Shaleeza Hasham, Founder of Adopt A Grandparent, added, “Ann and Angela’s friendship embodies our mission to create lasting connections and combat loneliness. It’s lovely to see their bond grow despite the distance.”