Elderly people staying at care homes look forward to the Christmas and New Year holidays as they mean increased visits from relatives and loved ones, they said on Tuesday.

Talking to the Cyprus News Agency, some said that their daily routine focuses on self care, talking to each other, remembering the old days and sharing a “sacred” coffee.

Some said they get the chance to go home or to a relative’s house, while others will remain at the care homes enjoying each other’s company.

Owner of the Panagia Maria care home in Chlorakas, Stella Panagiotou said the goal “is to make patients feel like they are at home.” She said she tries to make sure they do not feel lonely as for some people, melancholy is intense during the holidays.

“I feel safe here, having a good time with both the staff and the other elderly people. Going home is not safe for me with my kids working all hours and not being able to take care of me,” retired police officer Andreas Kountouris said.