• Speaking about and listening to grief stories takes a lot of energy and attention and both parties can drain easily.
• Watch for time and be sure to set boundaries and limitations up front (we have about an hour together…as you know, I’m not a therapist but I am here to listen and…).
• Infantilizing an older adult, calling people by pet names, not honouring physical boundaries. 
• Refrain from hugging, patting or pushing tissues.
• Permission, choice and autonomy matter.
• Changing roles and changing needs.

Speaking about and listening to grief stories takes a lot of energy and attention and both parties can drain easily.

• Watch for time and be sure to set boundaries and limitations up front (we have about an hour together…as you know, I’m not a therapist but I am here to listen and…). Be aware of time, energy and resource limitations.
• Infantilizing an older adult, calling people by pet names, not honouring physical boundaries.  Always ask the person how they wish to be referred to and always ask permission before offering physical touch/comfort.
• Often our instinct to reach out and pat someone on the back or give them a hug may be more about our own needs than the needs of a client. For some, a physical touch as they are expressing their pain can be interpreted as “please shut this down, it’s not appropriate”. Similarly, directly handing someone a tissue can be interpreted as “clean up this mess” or “pull yourself together”.
• Permission, choice and autonomy matter. Avoid patronizing or condescending words/tone.
• Our role may change as the clients needs change. Make sure you bring a client-centered approach to care.  Also, know when you have reached the limit of your scope/capacity and when it may be time to refer and/or access other community services.