What is likely to be the biggest immediate problem for an older female client after her husband's sudden death?

After the sudden death of a spouse, the most immediate problem for an older female client is often the intense experience of grief, which can manifest as anger. This anger may not be directed at any specific person but can arise from feelings of helplessness, confusion, and frustration regarding the loss. The emotional response to such a profound loss can include anger towards the situation itself, the unpredictability of life, and even inward-directed anger related to feelings of abandonment or regret for things left unsaid or undone.

In the context of this emotional upheaval, while issues such as finances, loneliness, and estrangement may also emerge as significant concerns over time, the acute emotional reaction that follows the death often first presents as anger. It’s important to recognize that anger is a valid and common stage of grief that needs to be addressed, allowing the grieving process to unfold healthily. This understanding helps caregivers and mental health professionals support the client through her emotional experiences in the wake of such a loss.