Balancing Social Connection and Grief: A Guide for New Widows and Widowers

Loss is part of getting older, and for many seniors, the loss of a spouse is inevitable. Widowhood comes with its own effects, including a phenomenon known as the widower effect. While experts aren’t sure why it occurs, a person’s risk of dying increases in the first three months after losing a spouse.

One of the best ways to process grief is to surround yourself with loved ones. If you have lost a loved one and are struggling to meet up with friends or even pick up the phone, you are not alone. Here are some tips to help you get back out there while also giving yourself the space you need to grieve your loss.

Give Yourself Time

As beneficial as socialization can be, your healing comes first. If you don’t feel like being around people, staying home for a while is okay. Give yourself a few weeks to grieve before you begin venturing out for short periods, gradually increasing your outings.

Consider Bereavement Groups

You may find many of your friends and relatives don’t really get what you’re going through. After a while, they’ll expect you to “just snap out of it.” That’s where a bereavement group can help. You’ll be surrounded by people who are grappling with the same emotions as you, and you may find you have room to talk about your late spouse and how you feel.

Below are bereavement groups in Indiana and Ohio if you or a loved one are looking for a support group to help get through tough times while dealing with loss:

Indiana Bereavement Groups

GriefShare Groups in Indianapolis
Reid Health’s Living Through the Grief

Ohio Bereavement Groups

Cornerstone of Hope in Cleveland
OhioHealth Bereavement Services

Find Widowed Friends

If a bereavement group doesn’t feel like the right fit, a like-minded friend or two could be. You likely know someone who has lost a spouse and will understand what you’re going through. Reach out and suggest meeting for coffee or lunch. You might find that simply being around someone who’s been through a similar deep loss will make you feel less alone.

Lean on Your Friends

Reach out to your friends who you know will support you as you begin this new chapter of life. You’ll likely gravitate toward the friends who’ve been there for you after your loss, but there may be other friends who didn’t reach out simply because they weren’t sure what to say. Be sure to let your friends know what you need, whether you want to talk about your late spouse or if you’d rather take your mind off it by doing something else.

Exercise

Exercising can get you out of the house and around people, whether you take a workout class or go on solo walks. Over time, you may start to feel comfortable inviting someone to join you on your walks. In addition to promoting socialization, exercise can help lift your mood.

Pursue a Hobby

Exercise isn’t the only way to get out of the house and lift your mood. Pick up an old hobby or learn a new skill, ideally one that gives you a reason to get together with others. Not only will this help keep your mind occupied, but it will also connect you with people who share a common interest.

Finding Your Community

According to the American Psychological Association, having people around who understand and share in your grief can provide immense comfort. They can offer a listening ear, share memories, and provide empathy that helps in processing the loss. Engaging with others can distract from the pain of loss, reduce symptoms of depression, and improve overall mental health. Social connections have been shown to increase feelings of happiness and well-being. After losing her husband, Mary found a new life at Walnut Crossing in Marysville, Ohio. Learn below about Mary’s journey and how life changed once she moved into our senior living community and surrounded herself with like-minded residents and an empowering community.

Navigating life as a new widow or widower can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. At The Crossings senior living communities, we provide a supportive and caring environment where you can find comfort, companionship, and a renewed sense of purpose. Our dedicated team is here to help you every step of the way, offering personalized services and amenities designed to meet your unique needs. Call us at 855-223-8301 or contact us today to learn more about how we can support you or your loved one.