Abstract:

By the year 2000, persons aged 65+ will represent 13% of the US population. This reality will require governmental & societal changes that will impact family life & organization. The churches & their ministry will continue to assume basic responsibility for the spiritual well-being of the elderly & their families. Traditionally, the church's approach to pastoral care has been oriented toward individual need or crisis-based care. Special needs of greatest concern expressed by the elderly are: declining health; fear of becoming dependent; financial security; & isolation & loneliness. In light of these concerns, it is recommended that the church reorient its pastoral care in the following ways: appreciate the contributions of both activity & disengagement theories; begin to view aging as dynamic; consider holistic religion as the basis for caring; & take systems thought seriously.