3 Ways to Help Senior Loved Ones Through the Death of a Spouse

Dr. David Salvage

4/7/2022

When your senior loved one loses a spouse, they experience complicated emotions. If the death occurred after a protracted illness, relief might be one of the emotions alongside grief. Each person is unique. While there's no right or wrong way to cope with the loss, steps such as reconnecting with old friends, moving into senior living, and adopting a pet are often helpful. Seniors also benefit from talking with a mental health professional, focusing on self-care, and prioritizing their physical health in Brooklyn.

1. Encourage Socialization and Reconnecting With Others.

Grief causes some people to turn inward. Give your loved one their space, but encourage them to join you on outings to the movies and the local senior center. Invite them to your home for a meal.

2. Discuss Moving Into a Senior Living Community

After some time has passed, discuss with your loved one the possibility of moving into senior living. An assisted living community or nursing home facility provides plenty of opportunities for socialization, physical movement, entertainment, mental stimulation, and assistance with the activities of daily living. Fortunately, Brooklyn offers many options.

Seniors tend to be against moving at first, especially since it means another loss so soon after their spouse’s death. First, the death, and now losing their home. Frame the possible move in terms of gain, not loss. For instance, your loved one gains friends and the ability to skip many chores.

Research at least three communities in the area. Find out about pricing and payment options. Read facility reports and reviews from other families. Ask your loved one to join you on visits to these facilities. Emphasize they're just visits, nothing requiring a commitment.

3. Adopt a Pet

Adopting a pet can work wonders because seniors get an instant companion to love and keep them busy. Of course, pets aren't always appropriate, so use your judgment. Look at the support system surrounding your loved one and whether others are available to help care for a pet. If a move to assisted living or nursing rehab seems likely, research places with pet-friendly policies.

Keep in mind that seniors are high fall risks and can suffer serious injuries. The pet selection process must be strategic to minimize the fall dangers. Luckily, opportunities abound in Brooklyn and nearby.

For example, Brooklyn Animal Action can help you find senior-friendly pets. So can Animal Care Centers of NYC, which runs a Seniors for Seniors program. It matches dogs and cats older than six years with humans who are 60 or older. The program considers seniors' housing situation and lifestyle and waives adoption fees.

Helping Seniors Deal With Complex Feelings After a Loss

There are many ways you can help loved ones sift through grief after a devastating loss. Visit Dr. David Salvage's website to book a talk therapy appointment for you or your loved ones.

Fantastic Psychiatrist - I can't say enough wonderful things about David Salvage. It's extremely difficult to find a psychiatrist who actually listens, takes their time with you and works 'with you' to find the right medication for whatever you are struggling with. David is a gem, and I would recommend him to everyone and anyone who is seeking quality care. David, besides everything I just mentioned is kind, extremely knowledgeable, and has such a calm presence. The office was amazing. It's super cozy and unique, and not sterile like so many other offices I've been to. You will not regret scheduling with him. Thank you, David!

Anonymous Healthgrades

Dr Salvage is a highly intelligent, generous, and sympathetic doctor. He is very gentle, listens intently, and makes you feel as if you are in a partnership aimed toward your best health. I recommend him highly.

P. Vitals

I've been a patient of Dr. Salvage for over three years. He is a true professional. He goes out of his way to provide excellent service. Dr. Salvage is a rarity in psychiatry. While he is a medical doctor, he has a highly humanistic manner and approach that makes you feel welcomed as soon as you walk into his office. I highly recommend him.

P.N. Google

Dr. Salvage has literally saved the lives of 2 of my family members. He is so kind and caring and his knowledge of psychopharmacology is amazing. Depression and anxiety are difficult to manage long-term and his therapy and med selection has taken us all from some very dark places into a more balanced life filled with happiness. We still struggle, but with Dr. Salvage’s care, we have hope again.

J.K. Google

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