SENIORS, more than any other demographic, bear the weight of grief and loss with a frequency and intensity that demands attention and support.
The recent State of Seniors report released states 71% of Australian seniors have experienced at least one bereavement in the last two and half years.
In terms of prolonged grief, the report indicates 21% of Australian seniors meet the criteria.
It’s the kind of grief that accompanies the loss of a lifelong partner, the erosion of financial security, or the departure of a cherished friend. It’s a poignant reminder that grief knows no bounds of age or experience.
There is no preparation for the loss of your partner in life. It brings a mix of intense feelings, of deep sadness, anger, guilt, confusion and fear that there is no specific time limit that can be forecasted. There is also gratitude with memories of happier times.
Blue Care has recognised the need to support people while they undertake the journey of dealing with a loss of life, and has been conducting a specialised Grief and Loss program for over three decades.
Sharon Kirk, Lead Facilitator in Hervey Bay for the Blue Care Grief and Loss Program, says the grieving process is different for everyone and many need extra support to understand what they are going through.
“Our courses are designed for people to speak amongst a group that share common experiences in grief and loss, and provide emotional, social and practical support for group members,” says Sharon.
“Participants really benefit from sharing their experiences in the safety of a small group.”
The course is a structured program of two hours per week over eight weeks.
We had the honour of hearing the stories of the participants, listening to their experience of losing partners of 30+ years and the challenge of dealing with grief over varying periods.
A male participant spoke about losing his wife of 35 years only three months ago and how the group had helped him speak about his feelings and the bond it had created for him with the group by sharing his stories.
Another female participant spoke about watching her husband of 39 years lose his three year battle with cancer last year and still coming to terms with her feelings.
Lead Facilitator Sharon Kirk spoke about the tools they provide to participants, such as journaling, that had been beneficial for many who have undertaken the program.
While they are grieving among seniors, the sense of resilience is undeniable. Despite the weight of their sorrows, they continue to embody strength, wisdom, and focus on gratitude.
One participant, Cathie, spoke openly about the importance of “living your life” and the need for more social gatherings and senior groups such as “Cruise Buddies” that can play a role in their recovery.
For people interested in the program, they can contact Sharon on 0448 115 227 or visit the website bluecare.org.au/services/grief-and-loss-programs
