This posture drives the newly widowed toward even greater isolation, remorse, and fear than is necessary. AARP's Program Experience over a number of years has demonstrated that widowed persons who have made a satisfactory life adjustment can provide a unique opportunity to help the newly bereaved. WPS is based on the concept that significant help can come from those who have survived a similar experience and are willing to share the trauma with others. Widowed persons, men and women of all ages, who have adjusted to being widowed, help newly widowed persons. Experienced volunteers bring from their own life experiences new perspectives, hope, and understanding.
Help is provided through outreach volunteers and mutual help groups.
AARP's Widowed Persons Service programs bring together the resources of local religious organizations, educational institutions, social service agencies, professional associations, fraternal and service clubs, health and mental health facilities, and AARP groups in a coordinated effort. The national WPS provides organizational, consultative recruitment and training assistance, as well as published materials for local programs and for the public. The purpose is to provide an environment where people with a common bond can discuss issues, learn how to help each other, and initiate social and personal contacts. Each community has organizations and professional personnel to whom widowed persons can turn. The local Widowed Persons Service program then develops a directory or manual to provide easy reference to local services and appropriate agencies or personnel.