GRIEF SUPPORT FOR SENIORS

As people age, losses are cumulative.  Loss and grief can become heavy burdens affecting quality of life.  Loss of home, possessions, health, stamina, independence and identity often lie underneath the loss of a special person through death. This accumulation of losses can lead to bereavement overload and to yet another loss… the loss of sense of life purpose. Listening, empathizing, acknowledging losses and allowing an elder person to grieve at their own pace is the best way to help someone who is grieving. Feelings of grief and loss deserve to be recognized and validated. If people closest to the elder do not recognize the impact of death or loss, the elder person can feel isolated and alone. Grief is a natural and expected reaction to loss. Normal reactions include denial, confusion, lack of concentration, anxiety, sadness, fatigue, forgetfulness and irritability and anger. The process of grief takes time and uses a tremendous amount of physical, emotional and mental energy. It is important that family, friends and care-givers remind the grieving senior that their grief is not self-indulgence, weakness or a bad-habit. Chronic grief can begin with the normal grief response. If an aged person has unresolved issues of guilt, sorrow or anger, has an ineffective support network or lacks social involvement, a healthy grief process may be interfered with. The support of physicians and community professionals can help the elder person work through their grief.

Nanaimo Hospice Programs for Seniors    Please click on the links below for more information.    - Elders in Transition - Grief Spport for Seniors - Grief Support for All - Sharing My Story - One on One Counselling - Finding My Way - Self Care Clinic - Companions Through Grief - Walking Groups - Resources for Seniors - Hospice Shoppe

What Does Nanaimo Hospice Offer Grieving Seniors?