How You Can Help Seniors Cope with the Loss of Their Loved Ones

Uncategorized  |  December 17, 2018

Sadly, as people age, we all face the loss of many people we have loved. Aging adults facing this holiday season without a loved one, spouse, or lifelong companion this year may be suffering.

Sometimes, holiday gatherings can create additional cause for grieving. Holiday shopping, decorating, or other simple things may produce increased sadness.

Here are some easy ways to be helpful to those who are missing their loved ones at this time of year:

• Remind grieving adults that feelings of sadness, grief, or loneliness can be triggered during the holidays and what they’re feeling is normal. Their family gatherings and activities that are meant to be joyful may feel sorrowful instead. Often, when older adults know and accept this, it can help them find strength.

• Make certain brokenhearted adults have time to heal without feeling pressured to participate in activities they’re not ready for yet.

• Distinguish which holiday activities are the hardest for your loved one, and help him or her by connecting with other family members in advance so they can be supportive.

• Keep those who are grieving eating healthy foods and exercising regularly. It helps!

• Consider trying new holiday traditions this year, commemorating lost loved ones with a donation to a charity or by volunteering at a non-profit organization.

• Reassure the adult that it’s alright to ask for help as needed. An elderly person may have friends, family, neighbors, or other support in the community that he or she might have forgotten are nearby.

Comfort Keepers® provides needed quality companionship during the holidays. Professional care can help with emotional, as well as physical recovery. At Comfort Keepers®, clients can bond to caregivers, giving them meaningful relationships, as they are helped to be safe, happy, and remaining in their own homes.

During the holiday season, caregivers might help with meal preparation, light housekeeping, transportation to appointments, holiday gatherings, or even gift shopping. Contact us for more information and to schedule an appointment with one of our caregivers.

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