Consoling a parent when his spouse dies can be extremely difficult. Not only do you have to deal with your pain, but you also must support and love the surviving parent. According to the American Hospice Foundation, a grieving parent may experience several different emotions, including depression, anger, loss of interest in life and lack of motivation. Give your parent time to get over the death of his spouse; it may take months or years until he is able to move on.
Step 1
Sit in silence. Although you may want to reminisce and talk about the good times with your parent, the surviving parent may not be ready. Help Guide suggests letting the bereaved decide if she wants to talk and offer your reassurance through hugs and hand holding.
Step 2
Take care of errands. Stock your father's refrigerator with groceries, pay the bills, walk the dog and do any other errands to help him as he gets through his grief.
Step 3
Help her draw up a day-to-day schedule. According to the American Hospice Foundation, a bereaved parent may experience disorganization after the death of a spouse and benefit from a set schedule. Forgetfulness can also occur and encourage your parent to use sticky notes to write reminders to herself.
Step 4
Drive him to doctor's visits. Grief can affect a person's physical health. Transport your father to doctor's appointments, pick up any prescriptions, prepare nutritious meals and set times to exercise together.
Step 5
Offer extra support on special days. Keep her company on anniversaries, birthdays and holidays because these days can be especially difficult after the death of her spouse.
Tips and Warnings
- Remember to take care of yourself as you help your parent through the grief. Seek out the counsel of friends and relatives, eat well-balanced meals and get professional help for any emotional or physical problems.
