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    Grief After Loss

    Many losses with age. Help available.

    Grief is unique to you

    • No timeline.
    • Stages aren't linear.
    • Anniversary reactions normal.
    • Grief comes in waves.
    • Each loss different.
    • Multiple losses compound.
    • Friend, spouse, sibling, pet — all valid.

    Free senior grief support

    • Hospice bereavement programs — free 13 months after loss.
    • GriefShare — Christian-based. 13-week free groups.
    • Hope Edelman's motherless daughters — for those losing mom.
    • Widowed Persons Service — local groups.
    • Modern Loss — online community.
    • The Compassionate Friends — child loss.
    • Pet loss — Lap of Love hotline.

    Self-care during grief

    • Eat regularly (even small).
    • Hydrate.
    • Walk daily.
    • Don't make big decisions first year.
    • Limit alcohol.
    • Sleep when tired.
    • Cry when needed.
    • Talk about loved one — say their name.

    When to seek help

    • Inability to function 2-3 months in.
    • Suicidal thoughts.
    • Substance use.
    • Severe isolation.
    • Inability to eat/sleep.
    • Therapist specializing in grief.
    • Medicare covers.

    Books that help

    • It's OK That You're Not OK — Megan Devine.
    • Bearing the Unbearable — Joanne Cacciatore.
    • The Year of Magical Thinking — Joan Didion.
    • Grief One Day at a Time — Alan Wolfelt.
    • Free at library or Libby.
    • You're not alone in feelings.

    Crisis line

    If suicidal — 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call/text 988). FREE 24/7. Friendship Line for Seniors 1-800-971-0016. Sometimes need someone to listen. Help available. Worth reaching out.