Encountering loss becomes more prevalent as we age. This fact is especially true when living in a retirement community. When we lose someone dear to us, our world feels like it’s turned upside down, and we can say the same when our friends experience loss.
It is important to show comfort and compassion to your grieving friend in their time of need. Discover some helpful ways to offer support.
Lend an Ear
While everyone grieves differently, most folks need someone to talk to during periods of sadness. Let your friend know that you are always there to listen. Lending an ear goes a long way when they are trying to sort through complex feelings.
Do your best to ask your friend questions when appropriate. Take the time to reflect on their responses. By engaging in thoughtful inquiries, you can better understand what they are going through and what they may need most.
Send a Sympathy Gift
You can show your friend how much you care with a sympathy gift. Depending on your level of closeness, you may want to help them with some of the financial costs of end-of-life services. For instance, there are ways to save money when planning a funeral. One example is considering cremation over a traditional burial.
Other things to consider when sending a sympathy gift are what would help your friend most. If helping with funerary costs doesn’t seem appropriate, sending flowers or donating to a charity that meant a lot to the deceased person will be an appreciated gesture. Alternatively, sending your friend a care package can help console them during this difficult time.
Offer a Helping Hand
Grief-stricken people often feel overwhelmed by household duties and chores. You can alleviate your friend’s worries by offering a helping hand.
Some thoughtful actions include:
- Helping them pay bills.
- Doing their laundry.
- Cooking them a meal.
- Straightening up their house.
There are many ways to support those dear to us, from acts of service to listening when they need it most. Comforting a grieving friend by showing compassion allows them to weather the storm. You can’t take away their loss, but you can help them cope.
