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    Grief After Death

    First weeks. First year. Beyond.

    First days

    • Notify close family.
    • Funeral home arrangements.
    • Don't make big decisions.
    • Accept help with food, errands.
    • Death certificate — get 5-10 copies.
    • Notify Social Security (often funeral home).
    • Tell employer if applicable.

    First weeks

    • Funeral / memorial.
    • Notify financial accounts.
    • Insurance claims.
    • Will / probate begins.
    • Don't answer scam calls — predators target widowed.
    • Lean on loved ones.
    • Don't worry about "getting back to normal."

    First months

    • Probate process.
    • Update deeds, accounts to surviving spouse.
    • Don't move yet (most regret quick moves).
    • Don't give away belongings yet.
    • Hospice bereavement support.
    • Therapist if needed.
    • Self-care basics — eat, sleep.

    First year

    • Anniversaries hard — birthdays, holidays.
    • Plan ahead for triggers.
    • Make small decisions.
    • Avoid major moves.
    • Identity reformation.
    • Reconnect with friends.
    • New routines.
    • Grief comes in waves.

    Get help if

    • Can't function 3 months in.
    • Severe isolation.
    • Substance abuse.
    • Suicidal thoughts (988 NOW).
    • Physical decline.
    • Therapy can help.
    • Hospice provides 13 months FREE bereavement.

    Free senior bereavement

    Hospice bereavement — free 13 months. GriefShare — Christian groups. Widowed Persons Service — local. Modern Loss — online community. Don't walk this path alone.