Grief – it isn\u2019t something that should be taken lightly. There are many senior citizens that lose a spouse. In many cases, they have been together for years and years. Spending time with a spouse can be one of the most rewarding things. Memories are made and some of them are never forgotten. However, many people want to know and understand, what happens when a senior citizen loses a spouse?<\/p>\n
Grief and Its Physical Effects<\/strong><\/p>\n Losing a spouse can take a huge toll on a senior\u2019s physical health. According to the American Psychological Association, the 1st year in widowhood increases the mental and physical toll on many people, especially women. They stop functioning as well, socially. Health issues may set in such as headaches, stomachaches, and more.<\/p>\n Increased Risk of Heart Attack<\/strong><\/p>\n Losing a spouse, especially in the elderly years, can greatly increase the risk of heart attacks. In fact, according to a Medical Center study, the risk is 21 times higher than usual. That research shows that the anxiety and stress from losing a loved one might trigger responses from the body that actually damage one\u2019s heart.<\/p>\n