Unfortunately, death is an unavoidable fact of life. As we get older, we will all experience the loss of treasured family and friends.

Grief can affect a person in many ways. It can have significant impacts on the physical and mental health of older adults. It can also cause seniors to become withdrawn, impacting the social life of seniors. Grief can leave seniors feeling angry, isolated, irritated, regretful, anxious and depressed.

So, what are some tips for providing grief support for seniors?

Tips for coping with grief

• Grieve in your own way: Everyone experiences grief differently, and there’s no single pattern to follow.
• Don’t avoid mentioning the deceased: When someone close to you, such as your partner, passes away, don’t avoid mentioning their name or thinking about them.
• Keep up a regular routine: Try not to withdraw from your daily routine after the loss of a loved one, as it may negatively affect your mental health.
• Engage in physical activity: Physical activity for seniors can help them release tension and distract from their grief.
• Look after your physical health: As well as exercising, make sure you get enough sleep and eat well.
• Prepare yourself for difficult events that trigger memories or sadness:  These may include birthdays, Christmas and other special occasions.
• Reach out: You may feel like being alone, but remember that support is available if you need it. If you are struggling to cope with grief, make sure to reach out to family, friends or carers.

It’s completely natural to not know how to respond when a loved one dies. So, it’s OK if you don’t know what to say or what to do.

How to provide grief support for seniors 

The most important thing you can offer someone experiencing grief is a willing ear. Don’t interrupt them or pass judgment — just listen to what they have to say.

Let them express their emotions in whatever way they want. They might show their grief through anger and frustration, or by crying.

Keep an eye out for signs of anxiety, depression or loneliness and be sure to seek support for these if needed.

Encourage them to participate in normal routines and social activities where appropriate — but always respect their wishes.

Where is grief support for seniors available?

If you feel that you or a loved one need assistance in dealing with your grief, a range of support services are available. You should contact your general practitioner who can provide support and refer you to other services as appropriate.
Other support services available include:

• Griefline: Griefline offers support in dealing with grief. You can contact them on 1300 845 745)
• Grief Australia: Grief Australia offers a specialised support service for people who need support following the death of someone close to them. They can also refer you to other grief and bereavement services. You can contact them on  1300 664 786
• Beyond Blue: Beyond Blue offers support for anxiety and depression, which are often triggered by grief. You can contact them on 1300 224 636.

If you or someone you know is in need of immediate support, Lifeline can be contacted on 13 11 14. If someone is in immediate danger make sure to call 000.

Remember that grieving is a difficult process for everyone and you don’t have to navigate it alone.

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Article References

Aged Care Guide (n.d) ‘Dealing with the loss of a partner’, Aged Care Guide, accessed 6 May 2025.

Better Health Channel (n.d) ‘Dealing with grief and loss’, Better Health Channel, accessed 6 May 2025.

McManus, D (29 April 2025) ‘Aged Care Guide: Beating grief with seniors support by your side’, Aged Care Guide, accessed 6 May 2025.