Younger generations glance across an ever-broadening generation gap and wonder what occupies older people who seem to have nothing but time on their hands, nothing to do and no where to go.

 

So ask already

If you ask the newly retired what is happening in their world, the likely response will be “never been busier.” When I hear that answer, my next questions (most often politely unspoken) are, “Why do you say that? What are you so busy doing?”

Hopefully their response doesn’t stop with travel destinations or golf scores (both things I do enjoy), but extends to that which fills their days with an incredible sense of fresh meaning and purpose.

This is what we want to know about!

Just what do older people do every day?

According to studies done by the Pew Research Center, nine out of ten adults 65 and older spend time talking with family or friends every day. Eight-in-ten read a book, a newspaper or a magazine. That same number takes a prescription drug daily. Seven-in-ten watch more than an hour of television.

Nearly two-thirds drive a car across town or across the state. About the same number offer up a daily prayer. (Perhaps it could be said of adult children as well, offering up an anxious prayer concerning Mom’s or Dad’s driving.)

Less than half of older adults spend time on a hobby. Four-in-ten take a nap, while about the same go shopping. Roughly one-in-four use the Internet, gets vigorous exercise, or has trouble sleeping. Only 4% admit to getting into an argument with someone.

As men and women move deeper into their 70s and 80s, daily activity levels begin to diminish, especially when it comes to exercising and driving. On the other hand, daily prayer and daily medication (no, I did not mean meditation) increase with age.

Sound exciting? Not so much. No wonder getting older is viewed by so many as something to be dreaded!

 

Giving oneself away

What is it you’re good at doing? What gives you satisfaction and pleasure? What have you always want to try, but never had the time for? If you are still stuck on travel, have you considered travel with a purpose? Short-term missions? Studying abroad? Learning a new language?

If it’s golf (or any sport), why not mentor some youngsters into your game? You don’t have to be perfect, just interesting and interested. Show young people what they can do if they try, and at the same time share how Jesus has changed your life. Be a mentor.

Deliver food to the needy. Visit those who can no longer be physically active. Show you care and let Jesus love through you.

Lets add “purposeful” action to the list of things older people do everyday.  Stir the glowing embers in your peers. Leave a light on for the next generation!