Retirement, living in an empty nest, and the loss of loved ones can all dramatically reshape the daily life of a senior. Also, health concerns may cause older people to slow down and be less physically active. When these changes occur, they can seem overwhelming and, for some, may even result in isolation. However, senior living doesn’t have to be synonymous with seclusion. Often, seniors look to their churches as sources of community, activity, and service, as well as spirituality.
Church Attendance is Up for Senior Members
According to a recent Gallup poll, the percentage of active church-goers has steadily declined over recent years. However, older Americans are experiencing the most growth in church attendance, likely because the church provides a center for togetherness and friendship in addition to religion. Seniors can receive much more than salvation from their church.
Better Health May be Drawing More People to Church
Prayer and spirituality have been associated with better health for thousands of years. Over the millennia, scientific discoveries shed light on causes and treatments for various maladies and pushed aside prayer and other non-scientific remedies. Modern scientific studies, however, have shown a strong connection between prayer and improved health outcomes. There are cases of reduced hospital stays, relief of arthritis, and treatment of anxiety through prayer. Although older adults may not consciously decide to attend church for their health, the need for community and purpose may drive seniors to the same result.
We don’t want to give the impression that going to church will guarantee you good health. But it can definitely help, thanks to all the other positive choices that will accompany going to church. The body is a temple and healthy choices are holy choices. They include better snacking, physical activity, drinking more water, and prayer – all smart choices for healthier living.
In the same way many have a workout room in their homes to exercise, a designated prayer room or chair will increase your likelihood of praying. Quiet and solitude will help foster connection with God and provide freedom to worship. This space can be as easy as a clutter-free room with a comfy chair.
Lack of Transportation can Keep Seniors Away
The benefits of church attendance for seniors are difficult to reap when one’s transportation is limited. Some seniors are unable to drive due to physical or neurological health. Others dislike driving or limit their drives to times when the weather is ideal. In these cases, seniors might miss out on activities that they are otherwise motivated to seek.
Some have indicated that logistical problems associated with getting to church got in the way sometimes, and became a primary reason for missing church services. For younger adults, “logistical problems” often mean busy schedules full of reasons to not go to church, such as hectic family activities, but for seniors with more open schedules, these problems usually relate to transportation.
Thankfully, there are transportation options including churches that offer to transport those lacking a ride. Check with your parish to see if a shuttle service is provided from your neighborhood. If not, you can check public transportation routes, or use free or low-cost ride-sharing to get to your church. Your municipal senior services office might be able to provide information on van service to a variety of destinations, as well.
Consider Church for Overall Well-Being
For older adults, attending church provides an outlet for coming together in shared belief and purpose. As more seniors continue to engage with their local churches, they are practically guaranteed to enjoy improved physical and emotional health, and the community will benefit as well from their good friendship, wisdom, and participation.
Written by Charlene Roth
Featured Image by leah hetteberg on Unsplash
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