The Attitudes and Knowledge of Church Members and Pastors Related to Older Adults and Retirement

Abstract

The attitudes and knowledge of 260 church members and pastors, aged 21-94, related to older adults and retirement were studied. Data obtained from mailed questionnaires were examined and statistically analyzed to determine: (1) attitudes and knowledge; (2) differences in attitudes and knowledge among demographic groups; and (3) differences between church members' and pastors' anitudes and knowledge. Attitudes were generally positive and differed significantly when respondents were grouped by age, education, income, health status, marital status, the number of living parents and church involvement. There were no significant differences when respondents were ' grouped by sex and the number of living children. Subjects believe they have only some knowledge related to the areas included in the questionnaire and differed significantly when grouped by the demographic variables excepting sex. There were significant differences between the attitudes and knowledge of church members and pastors. Findings indicate a need for (1) lifespan learning experiences related to personal adjustment, social relationships, health care and maintenance and economic planning, (2) opportunity for increased intergenerational relationships, and (3) pre-retirement planning.