Senior Isolation After a Spouse Passes

After the loss of an elderly loved one, their spouse can be left feeling isolated and depressed. After spending a long life with a loving partner, losing a spouse can be like losing a part of oneself. For many, this could also be the first time they live truly on their own. After relying on a partner for many years, it can be difficult to cope with this isolation. When grief is added to the equation, it can be even harder. This article will discuss ways you can help your older loved one feel less isolated after the loss of their spouse. We will also cover ways to help them adapt to living on their own. 

Growing Responsibilities

Most spouses share responsibilities. This can include cooking, cleaning, managing bills, and more. However, it is not uncommon for widows and widowers to be overwhelmed by the total of their responsibilities after their spouse passes. Grief along with this added stress can be crippling to the surviving spouse. For example, it is not uncommon for some elderly individuals to not know how to cook or do laundry after relying on their spouse for decades. Help them by guiding them through these new tasks and assisting where possible. Try to teach them how to do it themselves, so they can feel more independent.

Spending More Time With Them

When possible, spend more time with your loved one. Supporting each other can be a great way to come together and fight your grief. After losing a lifelong partner, it can be easy for your loved one to feel alone and isolated. Keeping them company is a great way to fend off feelings of isolation. Coordinate with other family members or close friends to make sure they are not feeling too alone. Visits with the grandkids can be cathartic for surviving grandparents. 

Grief Counselling

Counseling or even therapy can be a helpful way for your loved one to process their grief. Encourage them to explore it as an option. A trained grief specialist can help your loved one work through feelings of grief and the changes to their daily life associated with the loss of their spouse. There are several options available to them, such as therapists, counselors, or support groups. 

Practicing Patience

It can be frustrating to deal with major lifestyle changes, especially when also dealing with grief. Try your best to be patient with your elderly loved one during this time. Everyone grieves differently. A little patience can go a long way. 

Consider Hiring Help

Many elderly individuals need assistance around the house. Consider hiring a home health aide or other senior companionship services. This can help combat loneliness while also assisting your loved one throughout the week. For families that live further away or have busy work schedules, hiring assistance for your elderly loved one can be a good way to ensure their needs are met. 

Managing Your Grief

It can be easy to forget about your own needs when helping loved ones with their grief. But it is also important not to let your own needs go unnoticed. Take time for yourself, and work on processing your feelings, too. Grief takes time and effort to overcome. Be sure to pay attention to what you need, and to allow yourself to heal as well. 

The author of this post is not a professional therapist or counselor. For more personalized grief care, find a grief counselor that is right for you. For our Grief Resource Center, written by Dr. Bill Webster, click here. 
For over 50 years, Matthew Funeral Home has been serving the Staten Island community. We can help with almost every aspect of your loved one’s memorial service. Our family is here to serve yours, every step of the way.