Every couple dreams of growing old together, so it can be devastating when one passes. If you have a senior parent that’s recently lost a spouse, it can be difficult to know where to begin helping them. Coping isn’t always easy, but there are ways you can reduce the burden. It’s important that they maintain a healthy day-to-day life, and a home health care professional can be an invaluable service when you’re unable to assist. Here are a few proven methods to get started.

How to Help a Grieving Senior Parent

1. Don’t Forget Basic Needs

You want to ensure your parent continues their health practices and maintains their home life. A home health care professional can clean up, assist with hygiene and diet, monitor health needs, and simply keep your parent company. These tasks can all ensure your senior parent maintains a healthy lifestyle and has plenty of time to grieve as needed without being bogged down by daily chores and other errands.

2. Keep Them Involved

Socializing and enjoying favorite activities are important aspects of the coping process. If you’re loved one frequently attends a church group or social activities with friends, encourage them to continue. If you can’t take them, have a home health care professional assist with travel. Help them continue favorite hobbies like sewing or reading at home. These give them an outlet to relax in, and they may find solace among friends and company.

3. Be Patient

Sometimes, all you can do is simply be there for your parent. Grieving takes time. Listen to them and invite them to share their feelings. Speak fondly about the deceased and ask friends and family to take part if your parent is comfortable. Presence can be enough at times, and your parent will feel empowered with a support system around them.

Since 1960, Lifetime Care has ensured seniors throughout the Finger Lakes region have all the home health care assistance they need. They serve the area through locations in Rochester, Dundee, Auburn, Newark, and Lakeville, NY, attending to over 33,000 home and hospice patients. Their compassionate team takes a personalized approach to each client, and you can count on a home aide making your loved one’s well-being a priority. Call (585) 214-1000 to schedule an appointment and visit their website to learn more about their services. You can also connect on Facebook for news and updates.