Grief Management Tips

Unfortunately, loss is a part of life. And as people age, loss of their loved ones and friends occurs more frequently and many other circumstances can lead seniors to feel grief in many forms. It is a normal part of aging, but seniors shouldn’t have to suffer through grief.

Fellowship Square offers tips to help seniors manage and work through their grief.

It’s important to recognize that grief doesn’t just come as a result of losing a loved one. It could be due to moving out of a longtime home, experiencing illness or physical pain due from ailments or simply the everyday changes that occur with age. Naturally, losing a loved one can create significant grief and this can take time to sort through. In addition to sadness, grief may encompass a myriad of emotions including anger, guilt, loneliness, and other feelings. There is certainly no “right” or “wrong” when it comes to how someone should grieve and there is really no time limit either. But it’s important to be able to deal with it and manage it so that it does not consume a senior’s entire life.

Talking with a friend, family member, or member of the church can be comforting in times of grief. While getting out the right words might feel impossible, even just being in the company of a trusted individual can help seniors work through their grief. They also need to understand that all grief will take time — some grief or loss will weigh heavier than others. Seniors experiencing grief should try to reach out to loved ones during their dark times.

Remember the good times. Whether it was a lifelong home that was lived in for many years and held a lifetime of memories or a significant other that the senior spent most of their life with, looking back on those unforgettable times and memories can help the loss feel lighter and it can help the loved one live on in a way. 

While grief can simply be washed away, staying connected with others and occupied can help seniors move through the grief. Spend time in nature, enjoy a long walk or a bike ride, take time to enjoy a favorite meal or a cup of tea and a good book. Seniors should seek comfort in doing the things they love.

Seniors should also pay close attention to their own physical health during times of grief. It can cause physical pain such as headaches as well as difficulty eating, sleeping and even thinking clearly. Seniors should maintain a healthy diet, include moderate exercise into their everyday routine, and try to get restful sleep.

See a grief therapist or counselor. There are so many experts and resources that can help seniors through their times of grief. Seniors should never be ashamed to seek help for grief management.

Fellowship Square encourages seniors experiencing grief to reach out to someone and to manage it so they can work through it the best they can.