Out of all the things we’re proud of here in Woonsocket, how we support our elderly population residing at The Meadows, an independent living community located in North Smithfield, Rhode Island, has to be at the top of our list. Our list of programs benefitting the seniors in our community is growing by the day. We’re feeling extremely grateful to be expanding our relativity new Grief Recovery Method Program in 2024 and 2025 .
Spanning from seven weeks for an individual, to eight weeks for a group, the Grief Recovery Method is an evidence based program stemming from the American Journal of Health Education. Differing from a grief support group, the Grief Recovery Method (GRM) is an action step program that gives the griever the tools that will help them heal.
“I have held over five individual sessions with some of the residents of the Meadows in the last year,” Meadows Resident Services Coordinator Lucy Goulet shared. “The GRM Program gives the griever the tools that lead to recovery. When someone realizes that there is a part of them that is emotionally incomplete, we can help them learn how to navigate that. The GRM recognizes that grief is not just the physical loss of someone. It also includes 40 additional types of loss that grievers may experience. “
With the Meadows acting within an age-in-place model, residents have often downsized and relocated there to enjoy their golden years in our healthy and happy living environment and avoid the stressor of future moves. Our residents, ranging in age from 64-96, grow close during these years, cultivating friendships that truly become family. It’s imperative for them that we have multiple programs in place to assist our residents with the joys of living. Our seniors enjoy everything from meditation and armchair travel, to reiki and birthday celebrations. However, in addition to these incredible opportunities, it’s equally as imperative to residents that programs also be in place to help them navigate inevitable loss.
“You may be grieving the loss of someone you never met,” Lucy explained. “Or for the relationship that you hoped would have been different, better or more. There is also a form of grief that focuses on things that have been absent in our lives, or unrealized hopes, dreams and expectations.”
Recently I received a beautiful note from a GRM client. She told me how much she appreciated the time with me. She wrote that I gave her her mental health back, her self-esteem and the courage to go on. She said that she learned that she is not a victim but a survivor who is strong and can face whatever comes her way in life.”
Meadows Resident Services Coordinator, Lucy Goulet
Whether it be a past or present loss of a home, loved one, friend or family member, grief is an integral piece of life that must not be ignored. Residents are welcome to contact Lucy directly at 401-762-2333 or Lgoulet@nwbrv.org, or visit the main office to inquire about this instrumental program.
