WE ARE SORRY for your loss 💛

[SummerOnTheWay1]

THIS GROUP IS OPEN TO ALL GRIEVERS NO MATTER HOW LONG IT HAS BEEN [years,days].

To participate, click on reply button at bottom of this post. Enter your comment. Click on reply again.

Grief & Loss Team  🤗

[SummerOnTheWay1]

🪧    Try to maintain YOUR hobbies and interests.

There’s comfort in routine and getting back to the activities that bring you joy and connect you closer to others can help you come to terms with your loss and aid the grieving process.

*** Maybe try something NEW.

[SummerOnTheWay1]

📸[*** .gif attached] Just in case YOU need one, WE are sending one YOUR way 🤗💛

[SummerOnTheWay1]

📸[*** Attachment] Sending a HUG your way my friend 🤗💛

[SummerOnTheWay1]

‌‌‌‌🤗‌‌‌   SIGNS from love ones!

A source of COMFORT on those days/nights when we NEED IT.

(1) Timing: SIGNS often appear when they are most needed, such as on anniversaries, birthdays, or in moments of distress, according to a blogger at O'Connor Mortuary.

(2) Intuition: They are described as giving a sense of peace, love, or comfort, rather than fear.

(3) Directness: They often feel too specific to be coincidences, appearing personal to the relationship you shared.

*** When we get "quiet" (relax, meditate) & "believe" - they will contact us!

[SummerOnTheWay1]

🎵‌🎶 Compile a list of YOUR loved ones’ favorite songs or music. Include songs that evoke happy memories and songs that soothe YOU and bring you COMFORT.

*** An excellent way to "relax" or "exercise".

[SummerOnTheWay1]

Everyone’s experience is unique. The so-called stages aren’t linear; we may move from anger to denial and back again before fully moving forward.

[SummerOnTheWay1]

There’s no timetable for grief … but the more you can talk about your loss, the more you’ll be able to process it and move forward.

[SummerOnTheWay1]

📸[*** .gif attached] WE care about YOU!!!

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‌‌‌🐈‌‌‌‌‌    CAT OWNERS, our babies are "missing" our luv one just as much as we are.

So try to make some EXTRA time to "cuddle" with them.

TOGETHER you will BOTH "move" forward the best you can.

*** Mister, my cat along with my "only" child (a daughter in a different state from me) are MY REASONS for "creating" ways to MOVE FORWARD. Find yours!!!

[SummerOnTheWay1]

‌‌‌🐕‌‌‌‌‌    DOG OWNERS, a "daily" walk will help BOTH of you with "missing" your luv one. Yes, pets do "grieve" like we do.

And the "exercise" will aid with sleeping at nights.

*** A GREAT way to "connect" with OTHER dog owners & "possible" NEW friends.

[SummerOnTheWay1]

At what AGE is grief the hardest? Children under 5 years old!

‌‌➡️‌‌[*** Children under the age of five will NOT understand the finality of death. Very young children often think that death is reversible and that their person who died CAN COME BACK.

[SummerOnTheWay1]

‌‌‌‌🕯‌‌‌‌‌‌  DECISIONS that often cause people distress include:

(1) When to sort through their loved one's belongings.

(2) Whether or not to take off their wedding ring.

(3) When to return to work.

(4) How often to visit the cemetery.

(5) Whether or not to sell or move.

*** Take your time with decisions. ‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌

[SummerOnTheWay1]

HOLIDAY Grief: Tips for managing grief during holidays include giving yourself permission to skip traditions and accepting your feelings.

[SummerOnTheWay1]

CAREGIVER Grief: Resources are available for caregivers dealing with "ambiguous loss"—the emotional pain of losing a loved one's presence while still caring for them.

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MEN and Grief: Research shows men may suffer more intensely after losing a spouse, often requiring specific outreach and support.

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Find "Listening Posts": Seek out PATIENT friends or support groups who allow you to talk without trying to "fix" your pain.

[NonieS198048]

I am approaching 84. Six months ago I lost my oldest son. Since then, I have done some brief support groups. I was in good health on my age. But all of a sudden, I am faced with a cluster of disturbing physical conditions. I feel like a century since my son died. I want to be in a group to just talk about it.

[agoyer]

@NonieS198048 

 I'm so very sorry for your loss. I can't image how it must feel to lose your son right now. It's a shock and it must feel like your safety net has been pulled away in some ways. The grief and missing him is so intense I'm sure. Grief is hard on us on every level - mentally, physically, emotionally. And it affects our health. That may be a factor in terms of our recent challenges with multiple physcal conditions. 

I'm glad to hear you've done some brief stints in grief support, and I agree it could be extremely helpful for you to be in an ongoing group to to get support and and be able to talk about what you're going through. 

Unfortunately, AARP doesn't currently offer a grief support group - just the online grief community here on the AARP Online Community. But I think a virtual or in person group could be marvelous for you. 

Now - to find one...here are a few options off the top of my head...

• I am currently coordinating virtual AARP caregiver support groups and we are using a platform called HeyPeers. I did a search and they have a number of grief and bereavement support groups. You can find them listed here: https://www.heypeers.com/meetings. On the right side of the screen, you'll see categories. Check the box for "Grief and Loss" and then it will filter all the groups for those that offer grief support. they are offered (free I think - at least some of them) and you can subscribe and register for them there by clicking on a specific group meeting then you will be able to sign up for multipe meetings. these meetings are virtual - so you'll need to use your computer or smartphone.But I have found that the virtual groups are incredibly helpul and effective .
• Another virtual option are groups offered by Duet - an organization in Phoenix, Arizona but they are open to people across the country. I have personal experience with this organizaion and have observed their groups and they are good quality. Here is the link: https://duetaz.org/support-groups/ (they are geared for people who have formerly been caregivers for loved ones). 
• There is an organization called GriefShare. they do virtual and in person support groups. They work with a network of faith-based organizations across the country to "host" the meetings, but my understanding is tthat you need not be a member of a specific faith group to participate. it is a multiple week program. I know people who have attended and found it helpful. https://www.griefshare.org/?srsltid=AfmBOor1cPdC8AwLfOVidaDduZDCXEr9gUpWpJYmFAnaGkfzTpjzPyjv
• Last option I want to share is to contact a local hospice organization and/or funeral home and ask if they have a list of local grief support groups. They often have a list of organizations you can contact. 

Also please be aware there is a section of the AARP website with Grief and Loss resources and articles that might be helpful to you at: www.AARP.org/griefandloss 

I hope between all of these options you can find a good fit for you. 

Please let me know how else I can be helpful! My heart goes out to you. there are caring people out there who can support and helpful. We juist need to get you connected. Isolation is bad for your health - not just mental health - physical health too. Let's get you connected! 

One day at a time. 😍

Take care,

Amy  

[SummerOnTheWay1]

[Tuesday 5/19/26]

Thank you SO MUCH AARP Expert Amy @agoyer for stopping by to "support" OUR Nonie @NonieS198048 !!!

Luv,

Nicole  🤗🤗🤗  (Grief Forum)

---

➡️[*** AMY @agoyer wrote:

@NonieS198048 

 I'm so very sorry for your loss. I can't image how it must feel to lose your son right now. It's a shock and it must feel like your safety net has been pulled away in some ways. The grief and missing him is so intense I'm sure. Grief is hard on us on every level - mentally, physically, emotionally. And it affects our health. That may be a factor in terms of our recent challenges with multiple physcal conditions. 

I'm glad to hear you've done some brief stints in grief support, and I agree it could be extremely helpful for you to be in an ongoing group to to get support and and be able to talk about what you're going through. 

Unfortunately, AARP doesn't currently offer a grief support group - just the online grief community here on the AARP Online Community. But I think a virtual or in person group could be marvelous for you. 

Now - to find one...here are a few options off the top of my head...

• I am currently coordinating virtual AARP caregiver support groups and we are using a platform called HeyPeers. I did a search and they have a number of grief and bereavement support groups. You can find them listed here: https://www.heypeers.com/meetings. On the right side of the screen, you'll see categories. Check the box for "Grief and Loss" and then it will filter all the groups for those that offer grief support. they are offered (free I think - at least some of them) and you can subscribe and register for them there by clicking on a specific group meeting then you will be able to sign up for multipe meetings. these meetings are virtual - so you'll need to use your computer or smartphone.But I have found that the virtual groups are incredibly helpul and effective .
• Another virtual option are groups offered by Duet - an organization in Phoenix, Arizona but they are open to people across the country. I have personal experience with this organizaion and have observed their groups and they are good quality. Here is the link: https://duetaz.org/support-groups/ (they are geared for people who have formerly been caregivers for loved ones). 
• There is an organization called GriefShare. they do virtual and in person support groups. They work with a network of faith-based organizations across the country to "host" the meetings, but my understanding is tthat you need not be a member of a specific faith group to participate. it is a multiple week program. I know people who have attended and found it helpful. https://www.griefshare.org/?srsltid=AfmBOor1cPdC8AwLfOVidaDduZDCXEr9gUpWpJYmFAnaGkfzTpjzPyjv
• Last option I want to share is to contact a local hospice organization and/or funeral home and ask if they have a list of local grief support groups. They often have a list of organizations you can contact. 

Also please be aware there is a section of the AARP website with Grief and Loss resources and articles that might be helpful to you at: www.AARP.org/griefandloss 

I hope between all of these options you can find a good fit for you. 

Please let me know how else I can be helpful! My heart goes out to you. there are caring people out there who can support and helpful. We juist need to get you connected. Isolation is bad for your health - not just mental health - physical health too. Let's get you connected! 

One day at a time. 😍

Take care,

Amy  

---

[SummerOnTheWay1]

[Sunday 5/17/26]

Dear Nonie @NonieS198048 , I am so sorry about your loss!!!

We are here ALWAYS, so "talk" away.

Personally, I feel OUR GRIEF is a "life long" journey. One in which we have days/nights of being able to COPE. Others, not.

I am sending our TWO "awesome" AARP Experts Jane @JaneCares & Amy @agoyer a copy of your post. They have "supported" the AARP Grief & Loss Forum for years. They too have lost loved ones and know how it feels.

Luv,

Nicole 🤗🤗🤗  (Grief Forum)

---

➡️[*** NONIE @NonieS198048 wrote:

I am approaching 84. Six months ago I lost my oldest son. Since then, I have done some brief support groups. I was in good health on my age. But all of a sudden, I am faced with a cluster of disturbing physical conditions. I feel like a century since my son died. I want to be in a group to just talk about it.

---

[SummerOnTheWay1]

‌‌‌👖‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌👕‌‌‌‌     When YOU feel READY, go through your loved one’s clothes and other personal items.

(1) Instead of parting with everything at once, you might make three piles: one to keep, one to give away, and one “not sure.” Ask your children or others to help.

(2) Think about setting aside items such as a special piece of clothing, watch, favorite book, or picture to give to your children or grandchildren as personal reminders of your loved one.

[SummerOnTheWay1]

Guess what? ‌‌‌‌‌‌‌ ‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌🤔‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌

WE made it through ANOTHER day/night!!!

And yes, maybe a little bruised but WE DID IT. ‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌

Luv,

Nicole ‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌🤗‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌🤗‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌🤗‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌ (Grief Forum)

[SummerOnTheWay1]

‌‌‌🏡‌‌‌‌   Being ALONE can also increase concerns about SAFETY. It’s a good idea to ensure there are working locks on the doors and windows.

*** You can also ASK your neighbors to keep an eye out. I miss the old days when neighbors looked out for each other. Now, with so many of us moving out of our houses (move in with family), we are losing that neighborhood connection it seems in our lives.

[SummerOnTheWay1]

‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌➡️‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌[*** What is a Grief JAR?

A grief jar is a PHYSICAL CONTAINER, such as a jar, box, or vase, that you use to COLLECT and acknowledge your emotions during times of grief and loss. It serves as a REMINDER of your feelings and experiences, allowing you to connect, express and process your emotions safely and intentionally. This can give some COMFORT during an overwhelming time.

[1] Write Your Thoughts and Feelings:

Whenever you feel overwhelmed by emotions, take a moment to write down your thoughts and feelings on a small piece of paper. It could be a memory, a message to your loved one, or simply a reflection on your grief journey.

[2] Place Your Notes in the Jar:

Fold your notes and place them gently into your grief jar. Each note represents a piece of your heart and soul, allowing you to release and honor your emotions tangibly. You can revisit these notes whenever you feel the need to connect with your feelings.

[3] Visit Your Grief Jar as often as you can:

Try to make it a habit to check in with your grief jar regularly. Take time to reflect on your notes, acknowledge your emotions, and offer yourself compassion and understanding.

*** Of course YOU can "adjust" all of this to what works for YOU.

[SummerOnTheWay1]

‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌💡‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌   A Suggestion!!!

Explore YOUR area to find spots that may bring you COMFORT.

Some of us DREAD the old familiar hangouts we had with our luv ones.

Maybe one day WE will be able to visit them WITHOUT tears. But until then, EACH day maybe "act" like a TOURIST.

SO MANY possibilities out there.

SO MANY new friends to meet.

You got this!!!  ‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌

Luv,

Nicole   ‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌🤗‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌🤗‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌🤗‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌   (Grief Forum)‌

[SummerOnTheWay1]

‌❌‌‌‌️   Myth:

The pain will go away faster if you IGNORE it.

‌‌‌✅‌‌‌️   Fact:

Trying to IGNORE your pain or keep it from surfacing will only make it worse in the long run. For REAL HEALING, it is necessary to face your grief and actively deal with it.

[SummerOnTheWay1]

‌📌‌   Make a MEMORY blanket, teddy or cushions out of YOUR loved ones’ clothes.

*** Something to "snuggle" up with on those "sleepless" nights or when the "tears" arrive. ‌

[SummerOnTheWay1]

‌‌‌👣‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌   ONE STEP may mean making sure YOU EAT today/tonight.

Sometimes OUR interest in food is gone along with the energy to face EACH day/night. ‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌

*** Try "snacking & sipping water" IF you are NOT able to consume a regular meal. Doing this "several" times during the day/night will help to keep you hydrated & well.

[SummerOnTheWay1]

‌👴‌‌‌‌‌‌👵‌‌‌   GRIEF in your 60s (and OLDER) often involves MULTIPLE losses. It may trigger depression or isolation, often mistaken for normal aging. COPING involves seeking support, finding NEW meaning, and maintaining CONNECTIONS.

*** Try to reach out to people who CARE about you. Let them know how YOU are "feeling". Maybe "join" activities at your local Senior Center. Or volunteer with animals.

[SummerOnTheWay1]

OUR LIFE SEASONS [a time of changes]!!!

Just like the WEATHER has seasons, so do WE.

(1) There is a season to lay low & heal WHILE we "recover" from OUR LOSS. Yes, a VERY ROUGH season indeed.

(2) There is a season to "maybe" WELCOME our NEW life = accepting our loss & figuring out things. WE all have "different" times in the LAY LOW season. NEVER feel "guilty" for taking YOUR TIME with all this.

(3) There is a season I guess we can call it one where WE ARE FINALLY "smiling" again. Oh yes, that will happen when WE least expect it. Yes, WE will still have our "tears" but with TIME, we will be ABLE to find some PEACE in the midst of our grieving.

(4) Last season, I guess it is one where we are PACKING UP OUR OLD LIFE after making sure it is the right time to do so. WE always "need" to make sure WE are "moving on" in a way that WORKS FOR US. That may involve saying "goodbye" to an area we have loved and had MANY years in. Sometimes MOVING "closer" to OUR "support" (family) is what is best. On the other hand, some of us "choose" to STAY PUT. The important thing is to do things YOUR WAY.

Grief & Loss Team   ‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌🤗‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌‌