Watchtower Study, How to Maintain Joy in Old Age, Week of January 5-11, 2026, Comments and Responses.

Watchtower Study, How to Maintain Joy in Old Age, January 5-11, 2026, Comments and Responses.

“In their old age they will continue to prosper” (Ps. 92:14).

1, 2. How does Jehovah view faithful brothers who are growing old? (Psalm 92:12-14; see also the picture.)

Jehovah views faithful brothers who are growing old as thriving, mature trees, which remain beautiful and valuable as time goes by. To him, they are no less important because of gray hair or age; on the contrary, he focuses on their outstanding spiritual qualities and their faithful service over many years, in both good times and bad.

ILLUSTRATION

An elderly couple is sitting on an outdoor bench surrounded by cherry blossom trees.

Like flourishing, mature trees, the older siblings are very beautiful and continue to thrive. (See paragraph 2).

3. Mention how Jehovah used one of his elderly servants to accomplish his will.

Jehovah used several of his servants in their old age to accomplish his will. For example, he used Sarah to give birth to a son from whom a powerful nation would arise and from whom the Messiah would come. He also used Moses, who was already elderly, to deliver the Israelites from Egypt. Furthermore, in his old age, Jehovah inspired the apostle John to write five Bible books.

4. According to Proverbs 15:15, what quality helps older brothers to face difficulties? (See also the picture.)

According to Proverbs 15:15, the quality that helps older brothers face difficulties is joy, since a joyful heart allows them to face the challenges of age with a positive attitude.

ILLUSTRATION

The couple in the previous image, embracing and smiling under the branches of a cherry blossom tree.

A cheerful and positive attitude helps older siblings cope with the difficulties that come with age. (See paragraph 4.)

THE CHALLENGE OF MAINTAINING JOY

5. What things might discourage us as we get older?

As we get older, we may feel discouraged because we are no longer able to do the same things we once did, because we miss the youth and good health of our younger days, and because of the physical limitations and pain that accompany old age. These difficulties can generate frustration, sadness, and even anger as we see our bodies and abilities change.

6. a) What other things might discourage us?

Other things that might discourage us include the loss of independence, such as having to depend on a caregiver, moving in with a relative, or no longer being able to drive due to poor health or vision loss. These situations can be very difficult emotionally.

To avoid becoming discouraged, we must remember that we are still very precious to Jehovah and that he understands our feelings. He takes into account our inner selves and the great love and appreciation we have for him and for our brothers and sisters.

6. b) What should older siblings consider when deciding whether they should stop driving? (See the article “Should I Stop Driving?” in this magazine.)

To determine whether they should stop driving, older siblings should honestly consider their health, eyesight, and ability to travel safely. In doing so, it is important to think about both their own safety and the safety of others, remembering that their worth depends not on their independence, but on the love and loyalty Jehovah sees in their hearts.

7. What will help us if we are saddened by the possibility of not seeing the end of this system?

If we are saddened by the prospect of not seeing the end of this system, it will help us to remember Jehovah’s patience. He is giving time for more people to come to know him and serve him, and thinking about the benefits that others—even our own family members—will receive because of that patience can change our perspective and encourage us to continue serving Jehovah joyfully.

8. How might age-related problems affect older people?

Pain, fatigue, or illness can affect the emotional state of both young and old, sometimes leading them to say or do things they later regret. Physical discomfort or suffering can cause them to react in unusual ways or speak impulsively, as happened to the faithful Job.

However, the Bible shows that, although these difficulties have an impact, they are not an excuse to mistreat others, and that it is important to acknowledge mistakes and ask for forgiveness when necessary.

TIPS FOR MAINTAINING JOY

ILLUSTRATION

A cherry blossom branch. In several circles are pictures of things brothers and sisters do to maintain joy in old age. The images are repeated in paragraphs 9 to 13.

How can we maintain joy despite the challenges of old age? (See paragraphs 9-13).

9. Why is it good to let ourselves be helped? (See also the images).

It is good to allow ourselves to be helped because it demonstrates humility and strengthens Christian love. By accepting help from others, we not only receive support and feel their affection and concern, but we also give them the opportunity to experience the happiness that comes from giving. This benefits everyone and contributes to our joy.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

It is good to let ourselves be helped because, although at first it may be difficult for us due to pride or not wanting to be a burden, accepting help teaches us humility and allows us to recognize that we need others.

When we allow ourselves to be helped, we give others the opportunity to experience the joy that comes from giving. At the same time, we feel encouraged and happy to see the love and care they show us.

ILLUSTRATION

An older sister is holding onto the arm of a younger sister as they go grocery shopping together.

(See paragraph 9).

10. Why shouldn't we forget to show our gratitude? (See also the image).

We shouldn't forget to show our appreciation because expressing gratitude makes others feel valued and appreciated for what they do for us. A simple gesture, like a smile or a "thank you," can greatly encourage them and convey affection.

Furthermore, by showing gratitude we strengthen the bonds of love and make those who help us happy, because they know that their effort is truly recognized.

ILLUSTRATION

An older sister writing a thank you card.

(See paragraph 10).

11. In what ways can we help others? (See also the image.)

We can help others by giving our time and energy, sharing our knowledge and experience with them. By taking an interest in younger people, asking them questions, and listening to them attentively, we empower them.

We also help them by explaining why obeying Jehovah is always best and leads to happiness. In this way, we not only comfort and encourage others, but we ourselves find happiness in doing so.

ILLUSTRATION

An older brother listening to a younger brother who is telling him something.

(See paragraph 11).

12. What does Jehovah promise his elderly servants at Isaiah 46:4? (See also the picture.)

At Isaiah 46:4, Jehovah promises his elderly servants that he will sustain and care for them throughout their lives, even when their physical strength declines. Jehovah always keeps his promises. This promise assures them that they will not be alone and that they can always rely on his help and support.

ILLUSTRATION

An older brother saying a prayer.

(See paragraph 12).

13. According to 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, what should we remember? (See also the image.)

According to 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, we must remember that, although our bodies age and we face physical difficulties, the Bible assures us that these are temporary and will cease to exist.

We must also keep our eyes on what is eternal, rather than focusing only on what is temporary, because present difficulties are fleeting and Jehovah promises us that our best days are yet to come.

ILLUSTRATION

An older sister in a wheelchair is reading the Bible and imagining herself in Paradise as a young woman, getting up from her chair.

(See paragraph 13).

HOW CAN WE HELP THE ELDERLY?

14. Why is it important to call and visit older siblings?

It's important to call and visit older siblings because they often feel lonely. By visiting or calling them, we show them that we care and love them, which brings them joy and comfort.

In addition, planning these visits or calls in advance helps us ensure that we dedicate time to what is truly important, thus strengthening the bonds of love within the congregation.

15. What can young people and the elderly do together?

Young and old can spend time together conversing and sharing experiences, such as telling stories, discussing favorite scriptures, or laughing together. They can also enjoy common activities, such as watching JW Broadcasting® programs, going for walks, eating out, or viewing creation.

In addition, young people can help in practical ways, such as updating electronic devices or downloading study materials. The important thing is to be good friends, support each other, and enjoy each other's company.

16. Why might it be advisable to accompany elderly people to the doctor?

Accompanying seniors to the doctor can be beneficial, as it ensures they receive proper care and are treated with respect. Furthermore, taking notes with the doctor and supporting them during the appointment can provide reassurance and peace of mind. This companionship can also encourage doctors to take them more seriously and contribute to a more positive experience.

17. In what aspects of ministry can we participate with the elderly?

We can engage with the elderly in different facets of ministry, such as inviting them to join us in the cart while we preach, bringing them a chair to sit in, or including them in Bible courses, even allowing them to lead them from their homes.

We can also help by organizing preaching meetings in their homes to make it easier for them to participate. These actions allow us to honor them and mutually benefit from sharing in the work of the ministry.

18. What will the next study article be about?

The following study article will discuss how we can maintain joy and spirits when caring for an elderly relative, child, or sick friend, and what can help us not to lose our joy while providing them with support and care.

WHAT WOULD WE ANSWER?

What things might discourage older siblings?

Older siblings might become discouraged for a number of reasons, such as feeling that they can no longer do the same things as before, missing their youth and good health, or facing difficulties performing simple tasks due to physical ailments, such as mobility problems or arthritis.

They may also be discouraged by losing independence, depending on a caregiver, moving in with a child, or no longer being able to drive or get around on their own. These situations can make them feel frustrated or sad, even though they remain very valuable to Jehovah and others.

What can older people do to maintain joy?

Older adults can maintain their joy in several ways:

Allowing oneself to be helped:Accepting help from others allows them to receive support and, at the same time, give others the opportunity to experience the joy of giving. This also makes them feel appreciated and loved.

Showing appreciation:Expressing gratitude with simple words or gestures, such as a "thank you" or a note, strengthens bonds with those who help them and increases their own happiness.

Helping others:Sharing time, knowledge, and experiences with younger people, comforting and guiding them, allows them to feel useful and experience joy in strengthening others.

Asking Jehovah for strength:Trusting in Jehovah and relying on his infinite energy gives them physical and emotional strength, and experiencing his love and support fills them with happiness.

RRemembering that old age and infirmities are temporary:Keeping in mind that physical difficulties and old age will not last forever helps them to maintain hope and joy, trusting in Jehovah's promises of a better future.

How can we help elderly Christians?

We can help elderly Christians in several ways:

Visiting them and calling them:Maintaining regular contact shows them that we love and care about them, helping to reduce their loneliness and anxiety. Planning these visits or calls helps us prioritize their company amidst our busy lives.

Sharing time and activities:Talking with them, asking them to share anecdotes or favorite texts, watching JW Broadcasting® programs together, or enjoying recreational activities strengthens friendships and brings them joy. We can also help them in practical ways, such as updating electronic devices or downloading study materials.

Accompanying them to the doctor:Accompanying them to medical appointments provides them with security, ensures they receive good care, and allows us to take notes on what the doctor says. This can also make doctors take them more seriously and make them feel supported.

Participating with them in ministry:Involving them in preaching, whether by accompanying them in the cart, providing a chair, inviting them to Bible studies or preaching meetings in their home, allows them to remain active and feel useful, while we honor them and strengthen their spirits.