Education in Retirement: The Power of Lifelong Learning for Older Adults
Lifelong learning is defined as the “ongoing, voluntary, and self-motivated” pursuit of skills for personal or professional development. While many people view this as a concept primarily relevant to anyone slightly outside of typical school age, lifelong learning can also be beneficial for older adults.
The Benefits of Lifelong Learning for Older Adults
Improved cognition
Research indicates that participating in mentally stimulating activities often results in improvements in memory and cognitive function. This engagement promotes neurone generation and strengthens brain connections, which can reduce the risk of dementia and other cognitive disorders.
Enhanced emotional wellbeing
Lifelong learning can significantly boost mood and self-esteem. By acquiring new skills or knowledge, we often feel a renewed sense of purpose and accomplishment. This can help combat feelings of sadness or depression, which are common in later life.
Social connection
Classes, workshops, and group activities provide opportunities for us to meet others with similar interests, nurture friendships, and strengthen community ties. This social engagement not only enhances our learning experience but also contributes to a supportive network that can improve mental health.
Lifelong Resources and Opportunities for Seniors
Formal education
Enrolling in academic courses at universities, colleges, or community centres is a valuable opportunity to engage in lifelong learning. Many community colleges and universities have specific programmes that allow seniors to enrol in courses at reduced rates or even for free. For instance, some institutions waive tuition fees for seniors aged 60 and older. Programmes like this can help us pursue our interests without the financial burden often associated with higher education.
Online courses
If enrolling in a university is not a part of your options, taking online courses can be another way to learn new skills. Online learning provides the flexibility to study from home, which is particularly beneficial if you have transportation or mobility issues.
Additionally, many online courses are asynchronous, meaning seniors can learn at their own pace. This approach is ideal if you may need more time to grasp new concepts or prefer to study during specific times of the day. Coursera, edX, Udemy, and Senior Planet are some of the online learning platforms to consider. They offer free or low-cost courses, too.
Workshops and seminars
Local community centres and senior living communities often host a variety of workshops, seminars, and lectures that cover a wide range of topics, including art, literature, health, and technology. Engaging in these activities can help enhance cognitive function, emotional wellbeing, critical thinking, and social interaction.
Volunteering
Volunteering in schools, museums, or nonprofit organisations offers a unique opportunity to stay actively engaged in communities. By contributing your time and expertise, you can give back to causes you care about, whether it’s helping students, preserving history, or supporting social initiatives.
In addition to making a meaningful impact, volunteering allows you to learn new skills, such as working with technology, organising events, or developing leadership abilities. These experiences not only keep the mind active but also foster personal growth and a sense of purpose.
Travelling
Travelling to new destinations, attending cultural events, and exploring different cuisines offer enriching experiences that can broaden your perspectives. By stepping out of your daily routines and exploring new environments, you’ll gain exposure to diverse cultures, traditions, and worldviews. This expands your understanding of different societies and fosters an appreciation for global diversity.
As the saying goes, “Learning is a lifelong journey.” Education and personal development never end after getting a diploma; they are continuously obtained throughout our lives. If you’re thinking of diving back into education, the above are some of the best resources to consider.
