Losing someone that has been a constant companion for many years, even decades can be devastating. Understanding what it is they have lost and how you can comfort them can help the grieving process.
This way of talking is most common with older people. Unfortunately, it has also come to be expected by nursing home residents, but there are negative implications to this style of communicating.
Congregate housing may be an alternative to adult day care allowing a senior their privacy and independence while still having access to any minimal assistance they might need.