The period of bereavement after a loss may continue long after a funeral ends. Sending flowers during or after a service or taking food to a family in mourning are kind expressions of sympathy, but perhaps you’d like to do more. Here are a few other gift ideas to help a grieving friend heal.

3 Gifts to Consider After a Funeral

1. From the Heart

A personal letter of condolence will be warmly received. Gather family members and friends, and have each write a letter to your bereaved friend. Place them in a box with an engraved metal plate of remembrance, and present the letters to them. Don’t expect them to open the letters immediately. When ready, they can read and reminisce. Being reminded of the life the deceased lived may bring on more tears, but they’ll likely be tears of gratitude.

2. Practicality

Your bereaved friend may not want to do much of anything for weeks or months after the funeral. Hire a cleaning, lawn care, or food delivery service to support them while they grieve. Offer to drive them to appointments, or stop by to gather mail, tidy a room, or share a meal until they feel less sad.

3. Vacation

Show your friend that they’re not alone by planning a day trip. Not every person in grief may appreciate this gesture, but some may. Bonding and sharing new experiences may be just what they need to feel like their old selves.

Family-owned Bolton & Lunsford Funeral Homes has been helping families in Cincinnati, OH, with all aspects of funeral planning, preplanning, memorials, and cremations for over 80 years. They’ll adhere to your wishes and religious preferences and transport your loved one to their final resting place with dignity and sensitivity. Call (513) 661-4059 to talk to a caring representative, or visit them online to learn more about their traditions and staff.