6. Life does go on, except for the one left behind. Life stands still and it is never to often for you to ask how they are doing and asking how you can be of help. Remember as life goes on so does the house maintenance, yard work, car repairs, finances, and many other tasks the widow could use ongoing help with particularly in the case of the elderly.
7. Holidays and other significant dates are difficult for anyone suffering a loss because those dates are still important and the memories of good times gone by. Acknowledging these significant dates to your loved one is very important because you are telling that person you remembered and know this is a difficult day or season.
8. Offer to help your loved one sort through the personal belongings of the one who has passed, that could be a few months or years after the passing. Understand each person deals with this very personal task differently.
9. When a minor child loses a parent, talk about the parent fondly and reassure the child it’s OK to talk about the deceased parent.
10. Encourage children to find ways to honor the memory of the deceased parent in whatever way is comfortable for them.
11. Ask the child periodically how they are doing and ask if they want to talk with you about the deceased parent or how they are feeling after time has passed.
12. Offer to accompany your loved one to a grief therapy group if they are hesitant to go alone.
13. If you feel your loved one is suffering on-going depression or any other health issues, encourage them to seek professional help. You can offer assistance in locating a professional and even drive them to appointments this could be very supportive.
Loss is difficult when going through it, being more attentive to the feelings and needs of those left behind to deal with the loss is the greatest gift you can give them.
PREVIOUS PAGE
