Grieving the loss of a loved one is difficult at any age, but it can hit seniors especially hard. During the grieving process, it can be easy to fall into a rut and neglect important daily routines, which will ultimately make the grief worse.
Whether seniors are living independently or in assisted living in Orlando, it is important to continue routine and self-care while they grieve.
Six essential self-care tips can help seniors navigate grieving the loss of a loved one.
1. Schedule a Joyful Activity
Whether it is going to the movies, doing arts and crafts, or playing cards, most seniors have activities that they enjoy doing. While they may not feel motivated to partake in a joyful activity, it can really help to brighten their spirits and remember that there are still good times ahead.
Scheduling a joyful activity doesn’t even have to be something that the senior is familiar with. Some new fun activities for seniors to try include:
- Live theater
- Volunteering
- Taking a class
- Going for a swim
- Gardening
- Writing
- Baking
Taking the time to distract the mind through an enjoyable activity is one of the best ways to cope with grief.
2. Talk to Someone
Seniors can easily fall into the trap of isolation when grieving the loss of a loved one. Talking to someone about their feelings, or even about other topics, is important to processing grief.
Talking about feelings is sometimes the best way to come to terms with loss, and social interaction overall is incredibly important for grieving seniors.
3. Keep Up a Routine
Grieving the loss of a loved one often causes a lack of motivation, which can mean that daily routines go out the window. It’s important for seniors to continue to care for themselves and their environment during this difficult time.
Sometimes family, friends, or caregivers may have to step in and encourage or assist seniors with their routines. Keeping a sense of stability while grieving can be one of the most important parts of coping.
4. Take a Walk
When grieving a loved one, physical activity can easily fall to the bottom of a senior’s priorities. However, it’s important to continue to set aside time for exercise each day. Taking a walk allows seniors to clear their minds, distract themselves, and meet their daily exercise goals in the process.
5. Make Time for Yourself
Some seniors deal with the loss of a loved one by keeping a busy schedule. While this can be effective temporarily, it is usually not a good way to cope with grief long-term. Seniors need to make time for themselves to relax and enjoy activities rather than continuously working or doing chores to keep busy.
6. Spend Time Outdoors
With its calming effect, nature has provided healing for centuries. Even short exposure to fresh air, trees, and animals can have a big impact. Seniors can spend time outdoors on a walk, bird-watching in the park, or just sitting on a picnic bench.
Getting fresh air and a change of scenery can go a long way in helping seniors get through their grief.
Care for Loved Ones at Assisted Living in Orlando
If a senior living in an Orlando skilled nursing facility or assisted living facility is confronting grief, caregivers can step in and ensure that seniors are getting the care they need. Living among peers, friends, and caregivers is often a healthy environment for seniors following the death of a loved one.
Grieving is never easy, but with help and support, seniors can successfully navigate the process and begin to move on with a new life.
