Meeting Loneliness Together: Daniel & Linda’s Story

Loneliness is a universal human emotion, but one we often hesitate to talk about. That’s why this year’s Loneliness Awareness Week theme, Meeting Loneliness Together, feels especially important.

At Adopt A Grandparent, we believe that connection is the antidote to loneliness – and sometimes, it starts with a simple conversation. One of the most powerful examples of that is the story of 14-year-old Daniel and 74-year-old Linda, who met through our programme and forged a genuine friendship through weekly video chats.

Daniel Dominick, a student at ACS International School in Hillingdon, was matched with Linda Jones, a resident at Acorn Lodge Care Home in Nuneaton, as part of his Duke of Edinburgh Award. Despite their 60-year age gap and different life experiences, the pair formed a close and heart-warming bond. What began as part of a volunteering initiative soon became something far more personal and powerful.

Each week, Daniel and Linda spoke virtually – sharing stories, playing quizzes, laughing, and learning from each other’s perspectives. Earlier this year, after months of chatting online, Daniel travelled to Nuneaton with his dad to meet Linda in person for the first time. He surprised her with a bouquet of her favourite flowers – a moment filled with joy, emotion, and a genuine sense of connection.

“I almost cried when I saw him,” said Linda. “This is the best surprise I’ve had in years. Daniel has such a kind heart, and I look forward to our chats every week. Meeting him in person was beyond anything I imagined.”

Daniel, who admitted feeling a little nervous at first, quickly found comfort in their friendship:
“She’s so funny, and she knows loads of cool stuff. I was speechless when I met her – in the best way.”

This is what Adopt A Grandparent is all about – real connection, meaningful companionship, and emotional closeness that transcends screens and spans generations. While most of our matches remain virtual, stories like Daniel and Linda’s remind us of the incredible bonds that can form, no matter the distance.

Linda added:
“The programme has been such a wonderful addition to my life. Having Daniel to chat with every week has really brightened my days. He’s such a kind young man, and I look forward to our conversations more than I can say.”

Our founder and CEO, Shaleeza Hasham, said:
“This is what meaningful connection looks like – built not on proximity, but on consistency, curiosity and kindness. Linda and Daniel’s bond is a beautiful example of how virtual companionship can become a lifeline, reminding us that no matter our age, we all need someone to listen, laugh with, and simply be there.”

Julia, the Well-being Coordinator at Acorn Lodge, shared her perspective:
“The Adopt A Grandparent programme creates meaningful relationships that bring joy and comfort to older adults while teaching young people empathy, kindness, and the importance of companionship. It’s been a great help for some of our residents and an initiative we’re proud to support.”

And it’s not just anecdotal. Research shows the mutual benefits of intergenerational friendships. According to Generations United, older adults who participate in programmes like ours see a 20% reduction in loneliness. The World Health Organisation has found intergenerational activity to be one of the most effective ways to reduce ageism – and it’s linked to an increase in life expectancy by up to seven and a half years. Meanwhile, the Centre for Ageing Better found that four in five people actively want to connect with different generations.

Daniel and Linda’s friendship perfectly captures the spirit of Meeting Loneliness Together. Though their in-person meeting was a special moment, their bond continues – just as it started – through virtual chats filled with warmth, humour and connection. Daniel has already confirmed he’ll keep calling Linda even after his award requirements are complete.

If you’d like to become a virtual volunteer with Adopt A Grandparent – or bring our programme to your care home – we’d love to hear from you.

Together, we can change lives. One call at a time.

Learn more or sign up at www.adoptagrandparent.org.uk