ABSTRACT
In this chapter we look at the process of becoming widowed. The circumstances leading up to and surrounding the death may determine the extent to which the widow or widower confronts his or her new role in a state of exhaustion, shock, relief, guilt, resignation, indignation, or a combination of these feelings. So we are concerned here with the nature and length of the last illness, the care and support given in the year before death, the widowed person’s view of that care, and the impact on his or her life during this time.
