Changing our view of aging

Reinventing Aging Shirley Yoder Brubaker et. al. Herald Press, 2003. 160 pages.

Despite our most valiant efforts, none of us are exempt from the process of aging. It begins at the time of conception.

Reinventing Aging deals with the real issues of aging and seeks to promote growth and initiate change in the way we view and cope with the aging process in our families and churches. Ten writers share their professional experience and advice, focusing on the social, emotional, physical and spiritual aspects of aging. They deal with service opportunities, financial matters, housing, making of wills and preparation for death. The book includes a fairly detailed study guide appendix.

The writers look at aging in a refreshingly positive way. They present a balanced model of aging that acknowledges losses that occur and affirms gains that are accrued.

“This book was written for people who are still in the ‘denial years’ . . . the late forties, fifties, or early sixties . . .” says Brubaker in the preface. “But these are the very years when we should be preparing for how we want to live and be cared for when we are older.”

The book also calls the church to diligence in engaging and involving people in the life of the church even as they age.

I recommend this book for personal reading, as well as group study.

Our view of the aging process is a good indicator of how we live our lives. Reinventing Aging raises the bar for living the fulfilled life.

Elsie Quiring is a member of Dalhousie Community Church in Calgary.