TCU retirees came together for their monthly book club meeting on Wednesday afternoon.

Around 30 attendees gathered in the library at the University Christian Church. This month, they discussed “Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End” by Atul Gawande.

Dr. Kendra Belfi, a geriatrician, was there to lead the discussion. Belfi emphasized how important communication is with everyone in life.

“This book is so much about communication, and I think it’s the center of what I’m doing in retirement,” said Dr. Belfi. “Communication with doctors, families, physicians and retirees.”

The first chapter brought up questions about death, facing mortality and how society doesn’t face death well.

Belfi said she believes in communicating with patients and talking about end of life care.

Belfi provided some solutions to help face aging and prepare for a longer retirement.

“Find a purpose,” said Belfi. “Many people retire and have nothing to do anymore, which contributes to them getting sick and aging faster. Nursing homes can do simple things to help patients feel useful, such as help setting tables or take care of the plants.”

Although this book brought up slightly demoralizing conversation, the conversation swayed from the book to issues within the community, politics and general conversation about their lives.

Judy Smith, archivist of the Retirees’ Association, said the book club is a great way for the Retirees’ Association to get together.

“It’s a chance to explore ideas,” said Smith. “We read all kinds of books and we try to read new releases and not too many novels. And read books that are interesting, like biographies or history related.”

The book club’s next meeting is Wednesday, Jan. 13th. They will be discussing “Saving Mona Lisa: The Battle to Protect the Louvre and its Treasures During World War II” by Gerri Chanel.