Tips List For Seniors Who Are Grieving

• There is no 'right' or 'wrong' way to grieve. Grief has many dimensions and is different for each individual.

• Look for help that suits your needs and temperament: church, support group, books, the Internet.

• If after six months you're still unable to function in daily life, you may need professional help. Signs of depression include marked change in appetite and/or sleep patterns; loss of energy, interest and pleasure in things; feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness; inability to concentrate; irrational or obsessive thoughts; suicidal thoughts. These can be part of normal grieving, but if they persist, seek help.

• Find out what helps you work through grief: reading books or poetry, keeping a diary or journal, talking out loud or writing a letter to the person who died, physical activity, such as punching a pillow or beating a rug, talking about your spouse with those who knew him/her.

• Postpone major lifestyle decisions until you feel strong enough to make them.

• Recognize that the death of a spouse can revive unresolved grief from long ago -- the death of a parent, perhaps, or an infant child.

• Anticipate difficult times - holidays, birthdays, anniversaries - and plan how to deal with rekindled memories and feelings.

• Let others know how they can help and accept help when it's offered