Supporting a Friend or Family Member After a Funeral

Losing a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences in life, and the grief doesn’t end when the funeral is over. In fact, for many, the days and weeks following the service can be even harder as they begin to navigate life without their loved one. If you have a friend or family member who recently lost someone, your support can make a significant difference in their healing process.
For those working with funeral homes in Canby, OR, the services provided help bring closure, but ongoing support from friends and loved ones is equally important. Here are some meaningful ways to help someone after a funeral.

Check In Regularly

Grief is an ongoing process, and your loved one may feel a deep sense of loneliness after the funeral. While many people offer condolences immediately after a loss, consistent support in the weeks and months that follow is crucial.
Make a habit of checking in through a simple text, phone call, or visit. Even if they don’t feel like talking, knowing that you are thinking of them can provide comfort. If they worked with funeral homes in Canby, OR, they may have received grief support resources, encouraging them to use these can also be helpful.

Offer Practical HelpAfter a funeral, daily responsibilities can feel overwhelming for someone in mourning. Simple tasks like grocery shopping, preparing meals, or household chores may become too much to handle. Offering practical assistance can be a meaningful way to show you care.
Consider:

• Bringing them a home-cooked meal or arranging meal deliveries.
• Helping with errands, such as picking up prescriptions or groceries.
• Assisting with childcare or pet care if needed.

Be a Good Listener

Sometimes, grieving individuals just need someone to listen. They may want to talk about their loved one, share memories, or express their feelings without fear of judgment. Be patient and allow them to grieve in their own way.
Avoid phrases like “I know how you feel” or “They’re in a better place.” Instead, simple statements like “I’m here for you” or “I’m thinking of you” can be much more comforting.

Encourage Self-Care and Healing

Grief can take a toll on both emotional and physical well-being. Encourage your loved one to take care of themselves by:

• Encouraging rest and healthy eating.
• Suggesting light activities like walks or relaxation exercises.
• Offering to join them for outings or hobbies they enjoy.

If they express ongoing struggles, gently suggest seeking professional grief counseling. Many funeral homes in Canby, OR offer grief support services or can recommend local resources.

Help Keep Their Loved One’s Memory Alive

Honoring the memory of the deceased can provide comfort to those grieving. Consider helping your friend or family member find ways to cherish their loved one’s legacy. This can include:

• Creating a scrapbook or memory book.
• Organizing a small remembrance gathering.
• Lighting a candle on special dates or anniversaries.

If they worked with Holman Hankins Bowker & Waud, the funeral home may have provided ideas for long-term remembrance, such as memorial keepsakes or tribute events.

Be Patient and Understanding

Grief doesn’t have a timeline. Some people take longer than others to adjust to life without their loved one. Continue to offer support, even months after the funeral. Small gestures like sending a thoughtful card, inviting them out, or simply listening can mean the world to someone who is grieving.
Working with a compassionate provider like Holman Hankins Bowker & Waud can help families through the initial stages of loss, but the support of friends and family is what truly helps them move forward.
By being present and offering a helping hand, you can make a lasting difference in your loved one’s healing journey. If you know someone who has recently lost a loved one, don’t underestimate the power of your support, it truly matters.