Has your spouse or another loved one recently passed away? We know that this time around Valentine’s Day is a particularly poignant time where your feelings of loneliness and grief are increased.
In addition, do you have questions about how to deal with these challenges, especially around special holidays? We have strategies we would like to share with you to assist you in coping with your loss and also ensuring that your planning reflects your current wishes.
- Be sure to acknowledge your grief. It is hard, but important, to recognize the pain and the increased sense of loss that Valentine’s Day might bring. If possible, share your memories and express your feelings with family members or friends. A listening ear and understanding are invaluable during these times.
- Try out or create new traditions. Valentine’s Day can bring up memories of your loved one who has passed but it can also be an opportunity to create new traditions. You might begin by celebrating friendships, attending community events, or volunteering, which can help bring a sense of purpose and connection.
- Reach out to professional support. Do not be afraid to reach out for professional help in coping with your loss. You can also look into support groups or counseling, especially around challenging times like Valentine’s Day. Remember, there is no shame in seeking help.
- You must stay connected. What can worsen feelings of grief and loneliness? Isolation! Be sure to maintain regular visits, phone calls, Zoom calls, emails or letter writing to connect with your family and friends
- Be sure to stay active. Gentle physical activities like walking can help improve mood and overall well-being. In fact, if possible, joining a group in these activities can help you stay motivated and keep you company.
- Be sure you are taking care of your health. Taking care of your health includes eating well, taking your medications as prescribed, and attending regular check-ups. Unfortunately, grief can often lead to neglecting personal health, so it is important for you to strive to keep up your healthy routines.
- Make sure your Florida estate plan is up to date. Your estate planning needs to reflect your current wishes, so be sure it is up to date. This updating includes your will, trusts, power of attorney, and health care directives. Sadly, the loss of your loved one may alter your previous estate plan or show the need for changes. Once updated be sure to review your documents regularly.
- You need to be very mindful of scams. Unfortunately, elders are targets for scams, especially those elders who have recently lost a spouse and might not be as vigilant. So be particularly careful and never give out personal information over the phone, on the computer, via your email, Facebook or other site. If unsure, ask a trusted friend or family member.
- Memorialize your loved one. You could honor the memory of your loved one. You might want to donate to a charity, plant a tree, or another meaningful gesture.
- We encourage you to begin planning now for long-term care. We highly recommend that you consult with a Florida estate planning and elder law firm to be sure your affairs are in order when it comes to long-term care. Because you are now single, there may be steps that need to be taken to ensure you will continue to thrive well into the future.
Finally, during times of loss especially around sentimental periods like Valentine’s Day, you need strategies for coping with loss and ensuring planning reflects your current wishes. By combining emotional support with the encouragement to keep a Florida estate plan and elder law plan updated you can continue your new life, navigate your grief and retain your peace of mind.
We know this article raises more questions than it answers. We provide expert service to guide you through the medical, financial, and emotional stress of caring for an aging parent or spouse. Our law firm was born out of the personal journey of Attorney H. Frances Reaves as she cared for her own parents. This experience taught her that most seniors in the United States are ignored by society, the government, business and, sadly, their children. Most children of elderly parents don’t know how many benefits and resources are available for their parents or ailing family members. Let us help you. We encourage you to contact us and schedule a meeting.