Dealing with the Loss of a Loved One

Death is part of life and if we are fortunate to live a long one, most likely we will have to deal with the loss of a beloved spouse, life partner, child, sibling or friend. As loved ones give our lives purpose, coping with their loss and finding new purpose is difficult as many seniors do not have the opportunities to socialize or get out as they once did. 

Grief counselors suggest some things a person’s family and friends can do to help them get through the worst of the grief. If it was your parents who died, be sure to let your surviving parents know how much you miss dad or mom, and share memories you have of the good times. Ask your parents if they have more difficult times during the day dealing with the loss as you could offer to come over or give them a call. Also be sure to not shy away from saying the deceased person’s name.   

Offer to do things with them you know they once did with their spouse such as grocery shopping. If dad did the yard work, either offer to do it or help mom hire a company to take care of it. Help your parents find outlets for socializing, and encourage them to pick up an old hobby or find a new one, or take a class. 

Being part of a senior living community such as Portland’s MorningStar at Laurelhurst, can be very supportive and give the person a sense of belonging. Other residents most likely have gone through similar experiences and have a special understanding of what the person is going through. 

MorningStar at Laurelhurst’s assisted living and memory care is designed to provide seniors everything they want and need in a retirement home. Along with impressive architectural design elements, an array of luxury amenities, hospitality services and 5-star dining; we offer Personalized Service Plans for the activities of daily living (ADLs) to help maintain residents’ independence. We open to residents in winter of 2023 and encourage you to contact us today to reserve your select suite and learn about exclusive savings for early depositors at the finest senior living Portland offers.