Once the funeral home services are complete, and the deceased has been buried, the surviving family members and friends begin the difficult process of grieving. Ensuring that everyone is okay after a death, including yourself, is important for the health of you and your loved ones. Below is a guide to caring for each other.

5 Aftercare Tips for Surviving Family Members

1. Keep in Touch

Check on family and friends regularly to ensure they are dealing with the pain in a healthy way. Set plans for lunch or give them a call each week to remind them they are not alone in their grief. Invite them over for dinner or plan an outing, such as a movie, or visit a special place to share memories of the deceased.

2. Practice Self-Care

Make sure to take care of your own health. Eat right and stay hydrated. Go for walks or join a new exercise class. Also, take the time to catch up on a television series or book you’ve always wanted to start, or try a few new recipes in the kitchen. Staying active will help you maintain your mental health during the grieving process. 

3. Sort Their Belongings

Most likely, the person you lost left behind belongings that will need sorting. Gather those closest to you and tackle this task together. As you go through the items, you can reminisce about the past and as a team, decide what you will keep and what you will donate in their memory.

4. Build a Memorial

Creating a memorial will keep you and your family engaged while honoring the life of the deceased. Create a memory box filled with pictures, notes, and trinkets that remind you of them. Some funeral homes put together collages and videos that can also become part of this memorial. Plan a regular event where you and family meet at either the burial site or at a special location to share memories about your loved one. You can even cook their favorite meal to share that day.

5. Make a Recipe Collection Book

Honor your loved one by compiling their favorite recipes and cooking tips. A cookbook will serve as a memorial and heirloom to pass down to future generations. Ask family members for recipes that they have, include illustrations, and find a website that will allow you to print the cookbook online.  

When you need a trusted funeral home in Monroe County, NY, contact Arndt Funeral Home LLC. Their compassionate staff members will ensure that your family receives the right funeral services for your needs. Call this funeral home at (585) 225-6350. Visit their website for their grief support resources.