The Impact of Grief
The physical effects of grief are painful at any age, but can be especially debilitating for seniors. Being mindful of the impact of grief can help you in prioritizing your own health as you heal.
Our Canterfield of Kennesaw locations hosts a monthly grief support group. For more information, follow their Facebook page.
Physical Health:
Seniors have a much higher risk of health problems during bereavement, due to increased stress levels paired with their ongoing health changes in the natural process of aging.
Appetite:
Many seniors already experience decreased appetites in their normal lives but, in the grieving process, many go days without eating.
Confusion:
This is an effect of grief at any age, but can be more intense for seniors and often includes forgetfulness, disorientation, and disorganization.
Loneliness:
Many seniors already suffer from loneliness. Loss can amplify that.
Some ways to help seniors through their grief:
Keeping company
Embracing the topic of the deceased loved one
Supporting with daily tasks
Continuing to help long-term
Suggesting grief counseling or a grief share
Loss is an unfortunate part of life, especially aging. The only way to get through it is by leaning on each other. Let us help you overcome the impact of grief.
Information from the Center for Grief and Trauma Therapy
