Richard L. Morgan has carved a niche as a bestselling author and an authority on older adult ministries and concerns. Now, he chronicles his own transition to a retirement community.
Morgan speaks frankly about the losses and realities as he approached his own not-yet-frail ‘fourth quarter’ (after age 75). Drawing from his journals of those sometimes-agonizing months, he takes us through his decision to move to a long-term facility and the first year of settling in.
‘The retirement community became my home, and I must confront the inevitable illnesses of old age … every day, ‘ Morgan writes. ‘While I could not minimize the difficulties and issues I faced in this new lifestyle, it gave me a view of this life as an insider. I became a participant, not an observer [as before in my ministry].’
Morgan addresses the fears of life after 75: loss of health, cognitive ability, short-term memory, independence and status. Fifty-two scripture passages, meditations and prayers offer hope for those along this intense pilgrimage.
As one reviewer says, ‘Settling In speaks loudly of the continuing call of a God with hands outstretched, who is always challenging us to further horizons, larger concerns and constantly surprising us with news to love and be loved.’
Morgan’s soul-baring reflections are invaluable for those considering a move to a retirement community, current residents, their family and friends, and staff of facilities.
Mengenai Pengarang
Richard L. Morgan, a retired Presbyterian (USA) pastor, stays busy writing and volunteering in pastoral care and as chapel director at the Redstone Highlands retirement community near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In addition to his seminary training, he has an MA in Counseling and training in clinical pastoral education. He is the author or coauthor of 20 books.
For more information, see Morgan’s website: richardmorganauthor.com. Two Power Point presentations are available through his website: ‘Dementia and Beyond’ and ‘Pilgrimage into the Last Third of Life.’