End-of-Life University

Learn practical tips for navigating the caregiving journey and grief after the death of a spouse.

My guest Jill Johnson-Young is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked in hospice and as a therapist specializing in grief, loss, dementia, and trauma. She shares her personal journey as a caregiver for two spouses and as a “double widow” along with helpful tips for grief and how to break the “widow rules.” She is the author of numerous books about grief for adults and children including her most recent The Rebellious Widow: A Practical Guide to Love and Life After Loss. Learn more at her websites:

www.therebelliouswidow.com

www.jilljohnsonyoung.com

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This episode includes:

• The “widow rules” and why they need to be challenged
• How society judges grievers rather than allowing them to take their own unique path
• How anticipatory grief helped with her process of grief after death
• The importance of fostering intimacy for couples who are facing death (making “body memories”)
• How medical and hospice providers often overlook the needs of the caregiver
• What to say to couples dealing with a terminal illness
• Why couples should discuss the caregiver’s future after death
• Setting boundaries and asking for help as a caregiver
• How she found “helpers” to connect with her children and watch over them during the dying process and funeral
• The jarring moment when a diagnosis is received for both patient and caregiver
• Challenges facing same-sex couples as they access care
• Humor as self-preservation for medical staff and caregivers

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Jill’s Programs and Courses; Get a 50% discount with code Podcast50
• Book by Rabbi Steve Leder: For You When I Am Gone

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