When someone loses a spouse, they need the support of loved ones to help them manage their grief and the practicalities of everyday life. It’s common for the bereaved to feel disoriented and overwhelmed in the days following their loss and the memorial service, but there are ways you can be helpful. Here’s how to be there for someone who is grieving. 

How Can You Help Someone After Their Loss?

1. Coordinate

Even when arrangements have been made in advance, there are still details to attend to when planning a funeral or memorial service. Offer your assistance to handle tasks like taking calls, coordinating the arrival of out-of-town guests, or managing deliveries of food and flowers. Just keeping track of who sent gifts can be a big job, so offering to do so can be extremely helpful. 

2. Care for Pets & Children

If a parent is grieving, they may not be able to give their full attention to their children and pets. They may also be busy planning the memorial service.

During this time, offer to take the dog for a walk or care for the kids. Even during the memorial service or at a gathering afterward, you can help with children by providing activities and supervision. 

3. Listen

Helping someone who is grieving sometimes means simply being there to listen and be a shoulder to cry on. Allow them to grieve in their own way; it might look like crying and emotional outbursts, or anger and silence.

Don’t expect them to emote in any specific way or tell them how they should be feeling. Simply express concern, let them know you are there, and be ready to listen when they need you. 

4. Stay in Touch

Grieving doesn't end when the memorial service has passed. Your loved one will continue to be sad as they learn to navigate life without their spouse.

They may not be willing to reach out on their own for fear of being a burden, so take the initiative to check in. Invite them to lunch or a movie, go for a walk together, or stop by for a visit, especially on special days like anniversaries or birthdays. Even if they don’t outwardly show it, they’ll appreciate the support. 

When you lose a loved one, you need an experienced funeral home to attend to every detail. For over 40 years, Leo M. Bean and Sons Funeral Home in Rochester, NY, has helped grieving families plan traditional funerals and memorial services. These compassionate professionals will guide you through the process to ensure you honor your loved one in a meaningful way. Call (585) 426-7830 to discuss your needs, or visit them online to learn more about their services.