Losing a parent is very difficult for a family, which is why it should bring everyone left behind closer together. Your parent has spent a lifetime comforting and supporting you, so it’s your turn to do the same for them when they have lost their spouse. Helping them through their grief, both before and after the memorial service, will be valuable for them while paving the way for you to cope with your own loss.

How to Support a Parent Who Has Lost a Spouse

1. Help Make Arrangements

Making burial or cremation arrangements and planning a memorial service falls to the spouse left behind, so help them with this difficult task. Take as much off their plate as you can. Visit the funeral home with them, make suggestions for the memorial service, and offer financial assistance if they need it.

2. Support Their Physical Health

Grieving people often forget to care for themselves. Commit to your physical health together, and the entire family can stay on track. Visit daily to get a little exercise, such as a walk around the neighborhood. Check that they are getting their needed nutrition with full meals by eating together. Make doctor’s appointments for a checkup if your parent already has trouble with their physical health.

3. Be There

The most valuable thing you can give your parent during their mourning period is your time. Losing a spouse isn’t just tough – it’s lonely. Visit as often as you can; this may be easier if you plan to have them over once a week for a meal or get together for a movie night. If you live far away and can’t be there in person, you can still be there over the phone.

4. Remember Special Dates

Remember those special dates that will bring up fresh grief and feelings years after the loss, such as birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays. Do something in the spouse’s memory on those days – such as a favorite family activity or volunteering for a cause they were passionate about – to turn a difficult day into a wonderful memorialization.

Meyer & Geiser Funeral Home is here to help you honor your beloved family member in Cincinnati, OH. This fifth-generation family funeral home is known for their caring service, experience, and accommodation to your family’s unique religions, customs, or special requests. See their full list of services online and call (513) 921-4144 to begin planning a memorial service.