The Seminar for Ministers and their Wives Who Will Retire by 2035 which is being held from 14th to 16th October 2025 at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh, continued today, 15th October 2025 with an insightful presentation by Pastor Prof. Joseph Osafo, Professor of Clinical Psychology at University of Ghana – Legon, and Resident Pastor of East Legon Worship Centre.
Speaking on the topic “Coping with Ageing Gracefully: Embracing the Changes of Body and Mind,” Prof. Osafo began by challenging common clichés such as “Age is just a number,” and “You are only as old as you feel.” He noted, “These sayings are partly true, but not entirely accurate. The reality is that ageing is a natural process. Frailty and mortality are inevitable, and physical exercise alone cannot overcome all the challenges of ageing. Some resilience is needed.”
Citing research, he explained that the ageing process begins around the age of 25. “As we age, we move from being independent to becoming dependent on others for self-help skills, facing crises such as sickness, and eventually death,” he said. He identified visible signs of ageing – wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and dryness – as some natural results of cellular deterioration caused by stress, inflammation, and metabolic changes.
Prof. Osafo also highlighted the global trend of an ageing population, noting that by 2050, the number of individuals aged 65 and above will double those below 25. “The adult population in Ghana will triple within the next 21 years,” he added. This, he said, would increase the burden on caregivers, reduce the dependency ratio, and heighten the risk of elder abuse and neglect.
Addressing the key elements of progressive ageing, he distinguished between ‘normalageing’ – not influenced by sickness – and ‘pathological ageing’, which is accelerated by conditions such as hypertension and cancer. “As we age, stamina reduces, daily activities become difficult, and physical balance weakens. Be cautious especially with staircases,” he advised. He further noted that sensory and cognitive declines, including vision loss, hearing impairment, and memory deterioration, are common in later years.
He encouraged ministers to remain mentally active to slow down psychological decline. “Ageing is a transition, so especially for pastors, constant mental engagement is vital. That’s why teachers and lecturers rarely suffer severe brain diseases; they keep exercising their minds,” he explained. “Engage in mind-stimulating games like oware and dame to keep your brains active.”
Discussing the phases of retirement, Prof. Osafo outlined the pre-retirement phase, honeymoon phase, detachment phase, reorientation phase, stability phase, and termination phase (death). He cautioned, “Manage yourself well so you don’t break down. Retirement affects identity and decision power. People naturally shift to where power is, so add new skills to keep your brain alive.”
He also addressed the psychological and emotional effects of retirement, emphasizing that feelings of emptiness, loss of relevance, and thoughts of death are common but manageable. “Retirement may disrupt your biography, but it is not the end,” he encouraged. He urged participants to prepare financially, plan for their bills, manage their health, and engage in activities such as gardening, and walking.
“Be positive,” he said. “Unforgiveness, worry, anxiety, and stress can block blood flow to the brain. Let your mind stay joyful and grateful.” He further advised reducing red meat consumption, drinking more water, eating more fruits, managing chronic conditions, and taking prescribed medications faithfully.
Prof. Osafo revealed that construction is underway for the first Geriatric Centre for the Aged in Africa, located at the University of Ghana, Legon, to cater to the unique needs of the elderly with qualified medical practitioners.
Concluding his session, he reminded the ministers of God’s sustaining grace in old age. Quoting 2 Corinthians 4:16, he said, “Though the outward man perishes, the inward man is renewed day by day.” He further referenced Isaiah 46:4, affirming that “God will still carry you in your old age,” and Psalm 71:18, adding that “God will not forsake you.” He encouraged, “Even in old age, you shall flourish and bear fruit as Psalm 92:12–14 declares. Remain strong and purposeful in the Lord.”
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