How to Face the Loss of a Grandparent
Grandparents hold a special place in our hearts, having given us invaluable love, wisdom, and support throughout our formative years—not to mention those famous five-dollar bills slipped into birthday cards. This bond we share with them is what makes it so difficult when a grandma or grandpa dies.
However, understanding why this loss is impactful and learning coping mechanisms for facing the death of your own grandparent can help you along your healing journey.
Why is the Loss of a Grandparent is So Impactful?
The death of a grandparent can have a huge impact on you because a grandma and grandpa often represent a unique blend of unconditional love and unwavering support. They have a distinct way of connecting with you in a way no other family member can, making their loss unlike any other.
The death of a grandparent can also signify the end of an area, leaving a void in the family and its history that is impossible to fill. Because grandparents are often linked to cherished childhood memories, favorite traditions, and life lessons, their death can feel like you’re losing more than just a single person—instead, it can feel as though you’re having to say goodbye to an entire part of your own life.
How Do I Cope with a Grandparent’s Death?
While grieving is a personal journey that is unique to everyone, there are several coping strategies that may help ease the pain of losing a grandparent:
- Take Time to Reflect on Favorite Memories
- Talk to Someone Who Understands
- Offer to Speak at Funeral Services
- Keep Something that Reminds You of Them
- Find Comfort in Family
Take Time to Reflect on Favorite Memories
One of the best ways to cope with the feelings of sadness and grief that come from the death of a grandparent is taking time to reflect on the happy memories you shared with them. Look through old photographs, listen to their favorite music, or even revisit places you used to go together. This reflection can provide comfort and remind you of the joyous times you shared, helping to shift the focus from grief to gratitude.
Talk to Someone Who Understands
Talking about what you’re going through can help you process your emotions and start the healing journey. Consider reaching out to a trusted friend, counselor, or even a family member who is also hurting from this loss. Doing so will help you to feel less alone and create a community you can rely on for the days, weeks, and years ahead.
Offer to Speak at Funeral Services
Speaking at your grandma or grandpa’s funeral or memorial service can be a powerful way to honor their memory and share a personal testament to their influence in your life. This doesn’t have to be a long eulogy—it can be just a few words about what they meant to you or even a funny story from your childhood with them. Expressing your love and admiration publicly can be cathartic to you, while providing comfort to others who are also mourning.
Keep Something that Reminds You of Them
Tangible objects can be a great way to still feel your grandparent with you, even after they’ve died. Some mementoes people choose to keep include beloved sweaters, favorite books, or handwritten letters. Many people will also choose to have Jewelry engraved with their grandparent’s fingerprint, so that they can carry a reminder of them near every day. All of these items serve as physical connections to your grandparent, offering peace during difficult times.
Find Comfort in Family
During such trying times, finding solace among family members can be incredibly healing. Gather with relatives and reminisce about the times everyone spent with your grandparent. Sharing stories and laughter can take the edge off the sadness and reinforce the bond you still share with your remaining family members. Continuing traditions in their honor can also help maintain their spirit within the family, showcasing the lasting impact they had on everyone.
Remember Your Grandparent’s Love All Year Long
Your grandparent’s love transcends their physical absence. Keep their spirit alive by emulating their values, sharing their stories, and carrying forward the lessons they imparted to you and your Loved Ones. Consider setting time aside time each year on their birthday or another significant date to honor their memory, whether by visiting their grave, lighting a candle, or simply taking a moment of silence to think of them.
Loss is never easy, but by cherishing your memories with them and actively finding ways to cope with the grief of their death, you can honor your grandparent's legacy for the years to come.
