Introduction
Older adulthood can be a time of creative growth and development or it can become a time of stagnation and despair. Older adulthood is usually thought of as the period of life for people who are 65 years of age or older. However, older adulthood is described less by chronological years and more by attitude, function, and lifestyle.
Older adulthood can be described as three phases.
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The first phase is the "active" phase (or "Go-Go" phase). Older adults pursue a variety of interests. Some may be working full or part time. Others will be starting new careers or going back to school. Still others will be engaged in volunteer activities, extensive travel, or leisure activities.
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The second phase is the "passive" phase (or "Slow-Go" phase). Energy and health begin to ebb for older adults during this phase. Extensive travel is often replaced with shorter visits to family and friends. Work ceases and leisure activities become more relaxed. Time may be spent caring for the failing health of one's spouse.
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The third phase is the "final" phase (or "No-Go" phase). Health problems may limit or even eliminate most activities outside the home. Mobility is restricted and home health care services or alternative housing may be sought.
Some of the faith needs of adults at this stage of life include the need:
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To know that all of life (at every age and stage) is a gift from a loving, creator God
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To trust in the promises of God related to forgiveness, redemption, and salvation
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To stand against the cultural prejudice about growing old
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To develop a new understanding of self-worth based on being a child of God and not measured by what one has attained or done in life
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To practice the spiritual disciplines of prayer, worship, scripture reading and receiving the sacrament of Holy Communion
The Church's Ministry with and for Older Adults
The mission of the church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ. This holds true for persons of all ages. More people are living longer as a result of better healthcare, nutrition, job safety, physical fitness and medical technology. No longer does the church give special attention mainly to young persons; the church is waking up to its duty to older adults, as well as to the worthy and vital contributions they make to the ministry of the Church.
Almost one-half of our membership as a denomination is 60 years of age or older. We read in Proverbs: "Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life" (Proverbs 16:31). In many ways, God is blessing The United Methodist Church with the gift of longer life. We are not simply an old denomination; rather, we are a denomination that is blessed with many older members.
With the increasing numbers of older members, The United Methodist Church is actively involved in providing opportunities for older adults to grow in faith. Ministry by, with and for older adults is viewed as an essential and intentional component of the church and its mission.
-Written by the Reverend Dr. Richard H. Gentzler, Jr., director of the Center on Aging and Older Adult Ministries at the General Board of Discipleship. Dr. Gentzler is a much sought after speaker and seminar leaders. He is nationally recognized as a teacher, writer, and leader in the field of aging issues, religious gerontology, and older adult ministries.
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