By Debbie Perkins
It is a fact of life. Each of us is aging. In fact, many are being given the gift of time.
The average life expectancy of 47 years in 1900 has increased to 76.4 years in 2005. It is predicted to rise to 86 years for men and 91.5 years for women by 2040. As a result of increased longevity, our society and churches are facing a major demographic shift. In 1990 12.5 percent of the population was over 65. By 2030 it is projected that 22 percent of the population will be over 65. The 85 and above age group will be the fastest-growing segment of the population, according to the National Institute of Aging.
How do our churches define a mature adult? Each church is different. In a current study to assess the impact of Virginia's aging population, one is defined as an older Virginian at age 60. Although chronological age is easily understood, there is enormous diversity in how individuals age.
For most individuals, the indicators of physiological health, psychological well being, socioeconomic stability, spiritual well being, and the ability to function and socialize as one desires are of most importance. We cannot ignore our aging. We must prepare for it and, in fact, celebrate it. Thus, the question to each individual is, “What will you do with your aging?” The question for each church congregation is, “How will we address the increasing numbers of members who are aging?”
What are churches facing? Eighty percent of persons aged 75-84 are still driving, and 60 percent of those 85 and older still drive. As current seniors and baby boomers have to relinquish licenses, there will be increasing need for transportation.
During 2004, at least 2,410 Virginians age 60 and older surrendered their licenses for medical reasons. In 2003 the Virginia Area Agencies on Aging reported 192,465 unmet transportation needs. Without the ability to get out and about, mature adults cannot be mentors or volunteers.
In 2003 the Virginia Area Agencies on Aging reported unmet needs for 1,642,770 meals. Total expenditures for the health care of our aging population will approximate $5 trillion when the youngest baby boomer reaches age 65. There will be 270,000 new physicians by 2020, but 425,000 will retire. Caregiving will become increasingly challenging because of fewer family members, the changing role of women and changing family dynamics.
About 8 in 10 baby boomers report they want to stay in their homes and close to family and friends as long as possible. Assistance with management of homes and household affairs may be necessary to allow for this.
The development of spiritual maturity is a high priority for older adults. There is also an education surge among individuals over age 50. Nearly 85,000 men and women over 50 are full-time students in undergraduate and graduate programs.
In recognition of both the responsibility and opportunity this presents for church congregations, Virginia Baptists are launching their “Aging With Significance” ministry to promote mature adult life fulfillment educationally, spiritually and functionally. This ministry encourages churches to examine their own congregations and determine how already established ministries are meeting the needs of their mature adults in transportation, nutrition, wellness, personal support, management of household affairs, spiritual care and education. Guidance is provided to meet discovered needs. The ministry encourages members of all generations, especially mature adults to volunteer their gifts. Written tools are available to assess the needs of mature adults and the gifts of volunteers. A state resource coordinator is available for consultation and training.
Mature adults want to volunteer their time and wisdom and mentor younger generations. They want to use their retirement years meaningfully. Someone said, “The church can minister not only to and for older persons but by, with, and through them.” We want to know what is happening in your congregation! Join with us as we celebrate our aging. “Even in old age, they will still produce fruit: they will remain vital and green” (Psalm 92:14).
Special to the Herald
Deborah H. Perkins is senior advocate/missions innovator for Woman's Missionary Union of Virginia and the Virginia Baptist Mission Board.