1. Talk About Your Own Feelings
Grief can feel lonely, even when surrounded by family. Sharing your own memories and emotions helps your parent feel less isolated. Tell them what you miss, too — it’s comforting to know you’re grieving together.
2. Ask Specific Questions
Instead of “How are you?” try asking, “What time of day feels hardest?” or “Do you miss your walks together?” These focused questions show you genuinely care — and make it easier for your parent to open up.
3. Plan Ahead for Holidays
Special days can be painful. Ask how they’d like to spend holidays, and help create new traditions that still honor their partner’s memory — lighting a candle, planting a tree, or sharing a favorite story.
4. Offer Practical Help
Grieving takes a lot of energy. Offer real, tangible help — cook dinner, mow the lawn, handle errands, or take over small household tasks their spouse used to do. Even small actions can feel like a lifeline.
5. Show Up — and Keep Showing Up
After a funeral, support often fades fast. Keep visiting, calling, or inviting them out. Simply being there — even for coffee or a short walk — helps fight the deep loneliness that follows loss.
6. Remember Important Dates
Mark birthdays, anniversaries, and “firsts” without their spouse. A quick message or card saying, “Thinking of you today,” means more than you might imagine — especially after the first year, when others have stopped mentioning it.
7. Learn About Grief
Grief isn’t linear — it’s waves of sadness, anger, confusion, and even guilt. Educate yourself about normal grief reactions (like forgetfulness or exhaustion), so you can be patient and understanding rather than worried.
