The pain and grief arising from the loss of a loved one, especially a spouse, is never easy. When an aged adult loses a long-term companion, partner, and possible caregiver, feelings like grief, sorrow, and survivor’s guilt are common and may take long periods of time to overcome. If you are the child of an aged adult who has lost a spouse, taking your own time to grieve, reflect, and recharge is important, but the comfort of your parent should be prioritized. There are many ways you, as well as other family members and friends, can help an elderly after the loss of a spouse, to deal with the aftermath of a death. As long as strength, patience, and compassion are exercised, you and your loved one will get through this ordeal.
Settle Administrative Duties
Even if arrangements are pre-determined and well-planned, the aged adult’s child or family representative should take on the responsibility of tending to matters like funeral arrangements, contacting family, friends, and clergy, notifying the relevant authorities for legal and financial matters, and delaying the payment of the deceased’s medical bills. Regardless of the surviving parent’s ability to handle these matters, additional support from a child or family member is usually necessary.
Look Out for Signs of Grief
Some can recover quickly after such events, but appearances can be misleading. Here are some signs your loved one may still be grieving:
- Inability to concentrate: With grief comes a wondering mind, making it difficult to complete simple tasks like reading or watching television, let alone driving or operating machinery.
- Forgetfulness: Missing appointments or leaving belongings in the wrong places are all indicators that your surviving parent is having difficulties concentrating. To help them focus, be patient and give written reminders.
- No interest or motivation: Your loved one may wonder what the point of life is or why any effort is worthwhile. Listen to them, show them your love and support, and continue trying to get them involved in their usual social or leisure activities.
- Disorganization: Aged adults who are grieving sometimes take longer or fail to complete one task before commencing another. Having a routine or schedule may be helpful.
- Fixation with death: A prolonged fascination with death may increase the risk of depression and unhealthy thoughts. Speak with a therapist or mental healthcare provider without any hesitation.
Address the Loss of Independence
The loss of a spouse highlights the survivor’s physical vulnerability. The medical and mobility conditions that come with age become more prominent when one is living alone, necessitating security and support. If your aging parent or loved one has mobility issues or is prone to falls, try getting rid of obstacles in the home and providing fall prevention devices, as well as home surveillance systems. Alternatively, making the transition to a senior living community with the proper amenities and living arrangements may provide you and your loved one with the best peace of mind.
Make the Transition with Discovery Village At Naples
Here at Discovery Village At Naples, the health and wellness, comfort, and security of our residents are our top priority. The excellent amenities and lifestyle programs we offer are catered to cultivating physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health, and give aging adults a new lease of life. Feel free to contact us if you are interested to find out more.
