When a loved one is grieving a loss, one of the most important things they need is the love and support of those around them. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 virus is making it difficult to show empathy and support in traditional ways.
What are some alternative ways to support a griever during the COVID-19 pandemic? When a loved one is grieving a loss, one of the most important things they need is the love and support of those around them. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 virus is making it difficult to show empathy and support in traditional ways.
It is still vitally important to reach out to those who are grieving, possibly even more so, as they will likely find themselves more isolated than in the past.
Please note that, depending on the mandates from your city, state or the CDC it is possible that some of these suggestions may not be viable options in the future. However, we hope that they give you some ideas on ways you can support those around you even in this difficult time.
1) Sign the online condolence book. Our funeral home has an online condolence book for all of our families. You can leave a message online to let someone know you are thinking of them.
2) Never underestimate the power of your words. If you do attend a funeral, you will likely not be able hug or hold hands. Instead, make sure to express what you are feeling in words.
3) Provide a listening ear. One thing that never changes (and requires no physical touch) is the need for the griever to be able to express themselves without judgement.
4) Reach out by phone call, text or video chat regularly. One of the most important things you can do to support someone who is grieving is to continue to reach out to them. Video chat can be a good stand in for a face-to-face meeting for the time being.
5) Schedule meal delivery. It is also common when someone loses a loved one to provide support in the form of meals. If you are unable to make food and deliver it, consider scheduling a delivery of food from a local restaurant.
6) Send a card in the mail. Those who are grieving will often appreciate receiving a handwritten card in the mail. It’s nice for the griever to receive something physical they can hold and read again and again.
7) Have comfort items or flowers delivered. Currently, many retailers are still offering delivery for items. You can create a care package and have it delivered to the griever’s house. You can also likely schedule to have flowers delivered to someone’s home.
If you need any other suggestions please do not hesitate to contact us, we are always here to help.
