If someone you care about has recently lost a loved one, it can be challenging to show your support when you’re not there physically. Yet, even if you can’t attend the memorial service, you can still be there in spirit. Show your friend or family member you care no matter where you are with the following helpful tips.  

5 Tips for Supporting Someone Through Loss When You Can’t Be There

1. Send Flowers

If there is a memorial service or funeral being held in the deceased’s honor, the funeral home website will likely provide instructions for having flowers delivered for the ceremony. Conversely, you can also send sympathy flowers, a gift basket, or a similar token of your support directly to your loved one’s home.

2. Call or Video Chat

Your friend or family member will likely be busy making arrangements and contacting their extended network directly after their loved one passes. This doesn’t mean you can’t call or video chat with them. Even if they can’t talk right away, they’ll appreciate your effort to reach out.

3. Make a Donation

Sometimes, individuals or their surviving family members ask for donations to a special cause in lieu of flowers. If this is the case, you can make a donation in the deceased’s name to the charity of their request. In fact, donating towards a cause the deceased was passionate about is a nice gesture even if it wasn’t requested.

4. Plan a Future Visit

While you may not be able to attend the memorial service or get to see your grieving friend right away, assure them you’ll set aside a time to visit as soon as you’re able to. This may be a time when they need support most, as the time after services have been held is when grief sets in hardest for some individuals.

5. Check In Afterward

Even after weeks and months have passed, let your friend or family member know you’re still thinking of them. Ask how they’re doing now and then, and don’t forget to mark important milestones on the calendar. Birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays like Mother’s or Father’s Day can be especially difficult.

The compassionate team from Meyer & Geiser Funeral Home in Cincinnati, OH, knows loss is never easy, which is why their professional funeral directors provide unwavering support through every step of planning for funerals and memorial services. Their owners have a combined 71 years of industry experience and are committed to honoring the lives of those who have passed with honor and respect. Explore their additional grief support resources online or call (513) 921-4144 to speak with a staff member.