Grief and loneliness hits women more than men

THERE are few things more painful than losing a loved one – but bereavement hits older women harder than men, a charity has found.

Research by Independent Age highlighted a ‘stark difference’ in the way men and women cope with grief.

Although women are more likely to ask for help and talk to others about their loss, they report greater loneliness.

A poll of 2,014 bereaved over-65s found that almost twice as many women as men said loneliness was the most difficult aspect of losing a family member.

This was despite the fact that 32 per cent of men did not turn to anyone for emotional or practical support after a death, compared with only 18 per cent of women. More than half of women said speaking to friends helped them deal with grief, as opposed to a third of men.

The survey found that 30 per cent of women said loneliness was the thing they found most difficult after bereavement, compared with 17 per cent of men.

Overall, respondents felt lonely for an average of eight months after losing a loved one. One in five had those feelings three or more years later. Janet Morrison, chief executive of Independent Age, said: ‘The poll shows the stark difference in the way men and women deal with grief.

‘We would urge older people to reach out for help and support if they need it.’

Mona Patel, of pensions firm Royal London, said: ‘Our own research shows a clear bereavement gender divide, with women suffering more financially and practically in the aftermath of losing a spouse or long-term partner.’