Bereavement
Grief is what we experience when we cope with loss. Bereavement describes the feelings of sadness and loss that come with the death of someone important to us. For caregivers of people with dementia, the experience of loss can start even before the person passes away. This feeling, known as anticipatory grief, occurs when caregivers begin to feel the emotional impact of losing that person and the relationship they had.
How people experience grief and loss
Everyone mourns differently. How you experience grief can be influenced by various factors such as your age, past experiences with loss, and your beliefs or religion. The type of relationship you had with the deceased may also play a role in how you grieve. For older adults, grief may also relate to other losses like declining health, unfulfilled life plans, and needing more help from others.
Supporting families after death of a loved one
Family members of older people receiving care may still feel shocked and sad after the person dies, even if they knew the person was aging and unwell. Helping families understand the decline in their loved one's health can prepare them for the eventual loss.
What you can do
Care workers and aged care nurses often know both the older person and their family well, allowing them to provide compassionate support after a death. You can:
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Acknowledge
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Share information
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Refer
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Extend support
Acknowledge the loss and create a safe environment for families to express their feelings.
Share helpful information about grief and recommend community resources, like support groups.
When someone is having a hard time with their grief, suggesting they talk to their doctor or another healthcare professional can be beneficial.
Many aged care facilities offer pastoral care and hold memorial services for their residents.
Bereavement guidelines offer useful information on how to support family caregivers, evaluate their needs, create a care plan, prepare for death, and provide bereavement support.