Supporting and Understanding Grieving Seniors

Unfortunately, grief is inevitable, and it can be challenging to navigate for people of all ages. Among older adults in the broader Southwest Oklahoma City community, we find that older, more vulnerable people can be particularly susceptible to these emotions. Losing a lifelong spouse, beloved relative, or dear friend are common causes of grief. As we get older, our losses may seem to pile up, making coping more difficult. That’s why addressing these feelings in a healthy manner is so imperative for the long-term well-being of seniors.

While grief is an incredibly personal journey that impacts each person differently, family members should be aware of the various ways they can support their elderly loved ones through difficult times.

Understanding Grief in Older Adults

Grief affects everyone differently. Some people may experience emotions that range from guilt to anger. Others have physical symptoms, including sleep disturbance or fatigue. However, there is a general framework for the grieving process. Professional caregivers who work with older individuals find that the process frequently includes five stages of mourning:

• Denial: Initially, a person may have difficulty accepting the loss of their loved one.
• Anger: Grieving individuals might become angry, resentful, or frustrated.
• Bargaining: At this stage, the person might subconsciously hope to reverse their loss, which can be accompanied by feelings of guilt and “what if” statements.
• Depression: As the reality of their loss sinks in, a person will often fall into a deep sadness.
• Acceptance: Ideally, the grieving process ends with acceptance, when the person comes to terms with their situation and finds a way to move forward.

Supporting your elderly loved one throughout the grieving cycle is essential to getting them the emotional help they will likely need. For one thing, some folks suppress their feelings and don’t allow themselves to mourn at all. If left unaddressed, these buried emotions may cause them other types of problems down the road.

How to Support Seniors Experiencing Grief

Use these tips to provide unconditional support to your grieving loved one.

Be Physically Present: Being in the company of your elderly loved one isn’t enough. You must also be physically present. This involves actively listening to your aging relative and giving them your full attention.

Don’t Downplay Their Loss: Validate your loved one’s emotions and relationship with the deceased person. Using the person’s name and sharing fond memories can make your elderly relative more comfortable opening up.

Be Patient: The grieving process doesn’t last a set amount of time. It may take weeks for your loved one to process their emotions and accept their loss. During this period, be patient and empathetic. Give your relative the space they need if they ask for it.

Find Them Support: Grieving seniors can benefit from talking to a therapist or joining an emotional support group. Visit this website to explore grief support groups in Southwest Oklahoma City.

Encourage Healthy Habits: Grieving older adults may neglect their health and well-being. Encourage your loved one to care for themselves by eating wholesome meals and exercising. Cooking or working out together can be beneficial for you both.

Visiting Angels Southwest OKC Provides Emotional Support to Seniors

Visiting Angels Southwest OKC’s compassionate companion caregivers can provide grieving seniors with emotional support and social interaction. Our caregivers actively listen, engage seniors with lively conversation, and participate in their favorite pastimes. They can also assist with meal planning and preparation, transportation, medication management, light housekeeping, and more.

Get in touch with us today to learn how we can help support you and your elderly loved one during this difficult time.