It made me think that there must be many people like her, a little lonely and wanting affection. As a race, we are naturally gregarious and can feel uncomfortable when alone. Some are better at finding company; others ponder how to mix.
Staying at home means that you are unlikely to meet anyone. Finding an interest and pursuing it is a pleasant way to meet people, although not everyone finds this easy and not all activities are social. For instance, join a gym and everyone is doing their own thing. You would need to start a conversation for other members to know that you wanted to talk. Join a discussion group, book club or walking group and that will be far friendlier.
It’s not always a hug that is wanted. Hearing from someone unexpectedly can give a real boost. So remembering a birthday or special event and sending a card or message can make the receiver feel cared for. Contacting a friend for no particular reason other than to chat can have the same effect.
I recall an idea started many years ago called ‘adopt a gran’. A family with children, but no grandparent, would be put in touch with an elderly person who was seeking company. A widow I knew was regularly invited to visit a family and enjoyed the affection shown to her, while the children could experience the joys of having a grandparent. This gave her a new purpose in life after her husband died.
Loneliness isn’t a label we wear on our foreheads, so you never know if a person on their own wants to mix or prefers to be alone. It’s presumptuous to assume the former, although approaching them with a smile or greeting can open the door to a new friendship. If someone is on their own, and not used to it, their self-esteem and confidence can dwindle, making it harder for them to communicate. Being aware that the person next to you may be lonely and shy is a start to recognising how to help. Not everyone will ask for a hug and it may be a bit forward to do so, but it did the trick for one lady and she had a smile on her face the whole afternoon!