Mental Health Moment

Life After Lost Love

When seniors lose a spouse or mate after a lifetime of memories and precious times spent together, the emotions can be devastating. If one spouse was the caregiver for the other, the grief could be compounded by the feeling of loss of purpose. On a cognitive level, the sense of worth can decline. “Why am I still here? What is my purpose?”

Family members and friends can play a critical role in helping to restore these feelings by reaching out and making deliberate attempts to include the mom/dad or loved one who has experienced loss in their lives in their activities. Even if it is something as simple as a weekly dinner together or taking a walk outside together, enjoying ice cream, and sitting and talking. Connection is key.

Harvard Health states, “People suffering from major depression tend to be isolated and feel disconnected from others and may shun such support and assistance. People who don’t get such support or avoid it may be at greater risk of slipping into clinical depression during the grieving process.”

There is light at the end of the tunnel, however. Social interaction can ‘bring people back to life.’ Oftentimes, renewed interests can spark a new outlook on life. Music, dance, gardening – whatever someone’s interests may have been even decades ago can foster regrowth. It really is a chance to rediscover who they were apart from their spouse. In an elderly generation (75+), many women who may have been devoted wives and mothers can explore their interests before marriage and children.

Making new friends for seniors who have lost a loved one is a powerful way to bond and connect with others and provide a new sense of purpose. Senior centers, bereavement groups, and family friends can be essential lifelines in establishing new connections.

You Are Not Alone!

So many are experiencing loss right now. The silver lining can be the opportunity to connect with others whose paths may be similar to yours. You can contact GriefShare at (800) 395-5755 to connect with people who are grieving with one another. Visit their website https://www.griefshare.org/ to find or start local groups or meetings. Don’t be afraid to reach out and establish new connections.

Beth Douglas is a writer and marketing communications professional with a passion for communications in the area of healthcare, senior care, and dementia education. She resides in Bradenton, FL and continues to be an advocate for quality care for the senior community.