Coping with Grief and Loss in Senior Living Communities

Common Causes of Grief and Loss in Seniors

Loss of a loved one: Whether it’s a spouse, sibling, friend or pet, the passing of a loved one is a common source of grief. It can also remind your senior of their own mortality.

Change in health or ability: Physical limitations, cognitive decline and loss of stamina may leave your loved one feeling discouraged.

Retirement: Shifting from the routine of working may take some getting used to, especially if your senior loved their career.

Family dynamics: Adult children and relatives tend to take on more responsibility with age, even switching responsibilities with a parent. That might be difficult to accept after a life of being a mom or dad.

New living situation: Imagine leaving a place you’ve invested time and money in and moving somewhere new. That transition can be a source of stress and grief when your loved one moves into a living community.

Finances: The cost of healthcare and the fear of outliving their income and savings could weigh heavily on your loved one.

Loss of self or independence: Lifestyle changes might make it difficult for your senior to feel a sense of purpose or autonomy.

Emotional and Physical Reponses to Grief

Emotional reactions include:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Fear
• Guilt
• Anger or irritability
• Numbness or shock
• Loneliness
• Confusion
• Sorrow

Your loved one may also exhibit the following physical effects of grief:

• Fatigue
• Sleeplessness
• Weight loss or gain
• Change in appetite
• Aches or pains
• Restlessness
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness
• Tearfulness
• Weakened immunity

Building a Support Network in Their Community

A sense of community can make a difference in your senior’s grieving process. It helps them foster connections with those who’ve undergone similar experiences. Discussing shared experiences with others who are actively healing provides them with an emotional outlet.

A support network also presents opportunities to socialize and make friends with other residents. Even if your loved one doesn’t actively participate in conversation, being around their peers allows them to reconnect with daily living.

Practical Coping Strategies for Daily Life

Coping strategies should encompass mental, emotional and physical well-being. It may take time to find the right strategies that work for your loved one.

Here are some suggestions to help your seniors cope with grief:

• Create a new daily routine that includes healthy habits.
• Eat a well-balanced dietto support energy levels.
• Exercise regularly to ease stress and release feel-good hormones like dopamine.
• Participate in social activities and outings.
• Honor your loved one’s memory by sharing stories, making a scrapbook book or hanging their picture.
• Practice relaxation techniques like meditation and mindfulness.
• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
• Express yourself through creative outlets like journaling, painting and drawing.
• Allow time to actively grieve and accept emotions.
• Set small goals to make the healing process manageable.
• Participate in family gatherings or schedule visits.

Professional Help: Counselors, Therapists and Support Groups

Support groups provide your loved one with a safe space to share their thoughts without judgment. Your senior may not feel comfortable discussing their feelings with family and friends because they fear burdening others with their grief. They can meet individuals who’ve experienced similar losses and learn different coping strategies.

One-on-one counseling is an individualized approach to grief recovery that’s based on your loved one’s unique needs. Therapists are trained to address the underlying feelings that contribute to overall wellness. They also supply tools and resources to assist your senior in healing.

Grief Support and Counseling at Embassy Healthcare

Emotional wellness is crucial for quality of life. The Embassy team is committed to helping your loved one process grief and find joy in everyday activities. We offer support groups and contract third-party psychological services for those coping with loss. Contact us to learn more about our services.